The Magical Text from Medieval to Early Modern

Catalog description

This course examines the early literature of magic and the supernatural, key themes in medieval romances, from classical references through the plays of Shakespeare. Students will learn about Anglo-Saxon charms and curses, and medieval beliefs about astrology, magical objects (amulets, magic rings, potions), and herbal lore, some of which form the basis for more modern medical practice. They will also study the differences between white (healing) magic and "necromancy," the black magic practiced by Morgan le Faye and Merlin, among other mages. Literary works may include Tristan and lsolt, selected stories of Marie de France, Robert de Boron's Merlin stories, Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, Chaucer's Squire's Tale, Franklin's Tale and Canon Yeoman's Tale, selections from Sir Thomas Malory's Morie Darthur, and early modern plays (Christopher Marlowe's Dr Faustus, and William Shakespeare's Macbeth and The Tempest).