The Rood in Medieval Britain and Ireland, c.800-c.1500

The cross is ubiquitous in medieval Christian iconography. As it was on the cross that Jesus died, bringing believers salvation, it is a critical component of the religion. But, despite the ubiquity and apparent simplicity of the instantly recognisable form, it has lent itself to substantial variation throughout history. The period covered by this new book – from the 9th to the 16th century – is no exception. In the early medieval period, for instance, Christ is depicted as a triumphant figure on the cross; later, a more empathic humanised figure, suffering the horrors of crucifixion, becomes more prevalent. In English scholarship, the term ‘rood’ is used to refer to a monumental