Rae Gillibrand
Premodern Scholar of Disability and the Body,
University of Leeds, School of History
Welcome!
I’m Rae, a lecturer in Inclusive Learning at the University of Leeds School of History. My research explores how people have experienced, understood, and augmented and displayed bodies throughout history.
My PhD, The Material Culture of Physical Impairment: Assistive Technology in the Late Medieval West, c.1400–1600, explored medieval health technologies (such as prosthetic limbs, wheelchairs, crutches, spectacles). I examined how these items were crafted, used, and perceived in urban societies of the late medieval period.
Since completing my PhD, I’ve expanded my research to consider premodern cosmetic devices and medical technology, (particularly the intersection of health and efforts to ‘beautify’ the body); menstruation and menopause in the premodern period; as well as the broader history of bodies—living and dead—being put on display.
I’m always excited to share ideas and hear about new projects, so feel free to connect with me via email or Bluesky—I’d love to chat!
Dr Rae Gillibrand 