The Medieval World (HIST*2200)

Code and section: HIST*2200*01

Term: Fall 2019

Instructor: Jacqueline Murray

Details

Course Synopsis:

This course introduces the history and culture of western Europe in the Middle Ages, a period spanning roughly a millennium, from the decline of the Roman Empire through to the emergence of the early modern world. The course will take a thematic approach to examining the values, beliefs, and institutions that comprised medieval society. We will explore the social, cultural, political, and ecclesiastical structures of society, and how these affected the lives of medieval people. While much of the focus will be on the culture and society of Western Europe, the Byzantine East and the Islamic worlds will also be examined.

Learning Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of this course, student will be able to:

1. discuss the outline of medieval society, its development, and key characteristics;
2. identify the medieval origins of some modern institutions;
3. appreciate the interactions between the Latin West, Byzantine East, and Islamic worlds;
4. assess and critique the markers of historical transformation;
5. critically read and analyze primary sources from a variety of context
6. articulate and further their appreciation of the complexity and richness of medieval

Method of Evaluation and Weights:

Short Reflection on historical change    20%
Problem and document analyses (3)    45%
Final Exam    35%

Required Texts:

Clifford R. Backman, The Worlds of Medieval Europe, 3rd ed (Oxford: New York, 2015).
Clifford R. Backman, A Medieval Omnibus: Sources in Medieval European History, 3rd ed (Oxford: New York, 2015).

Please note: This is a preliminary website description only. The department reserves the right to change without notice any information in this description. The final, binding course outline will be distributed in the first class of the semester.