Magna Carta will help inform Europe debate

The influence of the Magna Carta on British and European identity, values and law will be assessed at a public debate to mark the 800th anniversary of the sealing of the charter.

The event, at the University will explore the historical impact of the charter, which was sealed in June 1215 in order to place limits on the power of the crown and safeguard the rights, privileges and liberties of its subjects.

Examining connections

The debate will also examine the connections of the charter with Scotland and with continental countries, and how its legacy can inform current debates on EU membership and Scotland’s role in Europe.

Scholars from the Universities of Aberdeen, Durham, East Anglia, Edinburgh and Stirling will examine how the roots of the Magna Carta - seen as the founding document of English constitutional law - have contributed to the foundation of law and democracy and how it is still a benchmark for many aspects of modern society.

Public event

The event is part of a seminar series organised by the Centre for Medieval and Renaissance Studies and is sponsored by Blackwell’s and the German Consulate General.

We warmly welcome the general public to attend this event, which will mark the 800th anniversary of Magna Carta by exploring its connections with Scotland and continental countries. The event will use the Magna Carta to discuss Britain’s historical uniqueness in the light of the forthcoming referendum on Britain’s EU membership.

Magna Carta, Scotland and the continent - historical perspectives Tuesday, October 27 in the Teviot Lecture Theatre, Old Medical School, Teviot Place, Edinburgh EH8 9AG. The event is free but ticketed.