Dr Jane Shankar talks about the process of researching her PhD, which involved using archive records to write a historical novel set in the village of Dode at the time of the Black Death.

Her novel employs a dual narrative—with one half set in the mid-fourteenth century, and the other in the near pre-sent day—where the central archivist character ‘discovers’ a character from the past.

Jane explains the role of the archive (and Kent Archives and Local History team) in her research and writing process, and explains why using original documents enhanced her novel’s characterisation. She also shares how her exciting discovery of a medieval pastedown fragment shaped her work.

Find out more about Kent Archives at kent.gov.uk/leisure-and-community/history-and-heritage/kent-archives-and-local-history

Find all of our recorded Lunchtime Talks at youtube.com/playlist?list=PLU3u-E2tsZJyV-ZGZwDNuP550FkYuOc6r