Medieval Bestsellers: A Quantitative History of Early English Books

Opportunity Description:

We seek one or two undergraduate researchers to contribute to a research program in development in the digital humanities and book history, ‘Medieval Bestsellers.’ The project plans to use digital platforms and data management software to provide researchers with twenty-first-century tools to study the books and manuscripts of medieval England (1250-1550) at scale. We are currently conducting a general survey of the history and state of the field of quantitative book history, an approach to understanding the history of books which flourished first in the analog twentieth century, and has been revived by the powerful digital technologies of the twenty-first. What are the advantages and disadvantages of counting and categorizing books instead of reading them? How should we use modern digital tools to give us a better view of the history of reading? We will be making strategic decisions about which tools will be feasible to build, and which answer the needs of researchers in the next stage of this project. The project will focus on the extremely popular yet understudied legal manuscripts of medieval England. The student will work primarily with Joe Stadolnik, postdoctoral scholar at the Stevanovich Institute on the Formation of Knowledge, and in secondary collaboration with Anya Adair, assistant professor of English and Law at the University of Hong Kong. This opportunity is part of the research cluster “Data: Rethinking the Given” at SIFK, beginning in Winter 2021.

Primary Responsibilities: 

Undergraduate researchers will work in collaboration with project leads to design a prospective research program. They will compile annotated bibliographies of published research in quantitative book history for perspective. They may choose to explore the benefits and drawbacks of candidate data applications and platforms. They will help to articulate some motivating research questions for the project and identify promising avenues for development. They will prepare for and attend a virtual biweekly meeting with Stadolnik at a mutually agreed time, and other meetings as necessary.

Minimum Qualifications and/or Eligibility Requirements: 

Some advanced coursework in the humanities. Demonstrable humanities research skills. These include the discovery of relevant primary and secondary sources; reading for argument; writing reports of interpretation and analysis. Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative research team.

Coursework in medieval studies. Familiarity with the languages of medieval England (Middle English, French, or Latin) OR a proven ability and to learn languages independently. Experience or interest the organization and analysis of data using software (Excel, R, Anaconda, etc.).

Knowledge or skills gained from the experience: 

Undergraduate researchers will learn to locate published research in traditional formats (print material from the mid-twentieth century; rare book collections; etc.) as well as digital publications; they will learn to organize and carry out a research plan within an unfamiliar field of research. They will learn about the process of a research grant application and participate in the very initial stages, and how to craft an effective proposal. They will learn to write and think collaboratively as documents are drafted, revised, and submitted for review.

Application Process: 

To apply for this opportunity, please submit in *one* pdf document saved as "LAST, First_RA Staldonik AUT20", the following materials to Dr. Joe Staldonik [jstadolnik@uchicago.edu]: 

• Current CV with the contact information for two references (references can be current faculty; they will not need to provide a letter)
• 350-word statement of interest in the opportunity (this is not a formal cover letter; it is a motivation statement and an opportunity to explain what skills you will bring and what you hope to gain from this research experience);
• Unofficial transcript.

When submitting your application materials by email, please include the following in the subject line: "Application materials attached: Undergraduate Research Opportunity - Dr. Staldonik". Please submit high quality materials; this indicates your seriousness and potential for success in your research appointment. Following the review of materials, you should expect to be interviewed by Dr. Staldonik.

Application Deadline: 

Application Requirements: