Course Synopsis:

This course introduces the history and culture of western Europe in the Middle Ages, from the decline of the Roman Empire through to the emergence of the early modern world, roughly 500-1500. It does not focus on the chronological sequence of events. Rather, the course takes a thematic and cultural approach, examining the values, beliefs, and institutions that comprised medieval society and how these shaped the lives of medieval people. While primarily focused Western Europe, Byzantine, Jewish, and Islamic cultures will also be examined.

Mode of Delivery:

This course will be offered through remote synchronous delivery, with a combination of synchronous and asynchronous lectures. There will also be many independent learning opportunities including independent reading, watching videos, listening to podcasts, etc.

Learning Outcomes:

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

1. discuss the outline of medieval history and its key characteristics;
2. appreciate the broadly multicultural nature of medieval society;
3. assess and critique the markers of historical transformation;
4. critically read and analyze primary and secondary sources;
5. use multiple sources to develop an historical argument;
6. articulate and appreciate the rich complexity of the Middle Ages.

Method of Evaluation: Research Quest

Choosing a topic 5%
Finding Primary Sources 15%
Finding Secondary sources 25%
Research proposal & bibliography 25%
Final Take-Home Essay 30%

Required Texts: (bundled together in the Bookstore)

A Short History of the Middle Ages, Barbara H. Rosenwein, 5th ed. Toronto: University of Toronto Press, 2018.
Reading the Middle Ages. Sources from Europe, Byzantium, and the Islamic World. Edited by Barbara H. Rosenwein, 3rd ed. Toronto: University of Toronto Press, 2018.

**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.**