The millennium of European history dividing the “Fall of Rome” from the advent of the so-called “Renaissance” and “Reformation” periods has been characterized, interpreted and imagined in a multitude of ways. For some it represents the “Dark Ages”, while for others it marks a series of enticing “Golden Ages”. The medieval centuries witnessed cycles of decline and renewal in terms of classical culture and economic life, but also the rise of Christianity, Islam and Rabbinic Judaism as world religions. Many of the political, social, cultural, technological, artistic, economic and religious trends which later helped shape the modern world can already be seen emerging in this dynamic period.
In addition to providing a fundamental introduction to one of the formative phases of European and World history, this course will train students to understand the ways in which information can be gleaned from original medieval textual sources. Students will research topics of interest, critically analyze texts and interpret data in a sophisticated manner. Group work and discussion will be encouraged. Six credits.
- Múinteoir: Robin Vose