Gift-giving is fundamental to human societies, and for as long they’ve existed, written texts have been woven into patterns of generosity and exchange. In this talk, Nicholas Perkins explores some extraordinary gift books; introduces narratives about giving and receiving from ancient times to the present and across cultures; and reflects on the idea of storytelling itself as a form of gift. From ancient Sumeria to contemporary children’s literature, and from Chaucer’s pilgrims to Ebenezer Scrooge’s unexpected visitors, the power of the gift enriches and complicates the stories we tell one another. 

Nicholas Perkins is Professor of Medieval Literature at the University of Oxford, and a Fellow in English at St Hugh’s College, Oxford. He is the author of several books on medieval literature and culture, and curated the acclaimed exhibition Gifts and Books at the Bodleian Library in 2023. 

Quotes about Gifts and Books

'This lovely book will give great pleasure to very many readers.’  - Philip Pullman 

'A wonderful book … A thought-provoking collection, and beautifully produced.’ - Professor Dame Marilyn Strathern 

All talks at Firsts London take place in the Talks Space on the top floor.