British historian Mary Beard wins Princess of Asturias Award for Social Sciences – The Universe

The British historian Mary Beard won on Wednesday the Princess of Asturias Award 2016 for Social Sciences, for his work in spreading the knowledge of Greco-Roman antiquity.

Beard, 61, professor University of Cambridge, was described in a statement the jury as one of the most influential European intellectual figures of today.

Born January 1, 1955 in the British town of Much Wenlock, this intellectual long graying hair and wide smile is the author of books like the recent ‘a history of ancient Rome’ (2016), ‘Pompeii, history and legend of a city’ (2008) and ‘the Roman triumph’ (2007).

the academic combines “professional excellence in the study of the cultures of ancient Greece and Rome with an exceptional ability to communicate the interest and importance of such research to a broad audience,” according to statements University professor Saint Andrews Stephen Halliwell cited in the statement of the organization.

in the previous edition, the award of social sciences was awarded to the French economist Esther Duflo, recognized for their contributions to policies against poverty.

Beard is the third award of this edition after the Spanish actress Nuria Espert, recognized with the award of the Arts, and the American photojournalist James Nachtwey, awarded the Princess Austurias Communication.

the Prince of Asturias Foundation, now renamed princess of Asturias Foundation in honor of Leonor de Borbon, 10, Crown princess after the proclamation of his father Philip VI in 2014, awarded since 1981 these awards considered the Nobel prize of the world Hispanic.

Endowed with 50,000 euros (about $ 56,000) and a sculpture created by Joan Miró, is one of eight prizes awarded by the foundation, which is named after princess Leonor, heir to the throne Spain. Other categories recognize achievements in the arts, sports and scientific research.

These awards honor individuals or relevant institutions in the fields of arts, international cooperation, concord, social sciences, communication and humanities, sports, scientific research and literature. (I)