Love, Lust, War and Magic in the Middle Ages

Catalog description

This learning community will introduce students to the culture and society of the Middle Ages through the study of literary and historical works focusing on gender, warfare, and religious devotion. Students will explore the values of the Middle Ages critically by writing analytical essays and brief research projects which examine the connection between literature and society. Students will gain knowledge of medieval cultural and social history, while developing their writing skills. Literary works and topics will include: Beowulf, narrative histories of the First Crusade, the story of Eloise and Abelard, the Lais of Marie de France, Chaucer's Canterbury Tales, and the story of Joan of Arc. There will be films, museum trips, and cultural events in the course as well.