LIT-428 Seminar: Muslims, Women and Jews: Alterity and Identity in the Middle Ages

How did medieval Christians perceive difference and define the boundaries of identity? Study of medieval literature dealing with disenfranchised populations within European Christian society (women and Jews) and those outside its bounds (Muslims). Readings by authors such as Chaucer, Margery Kempe and John Mandeville, as well as anonymous dramas and crusade romances, and modern criticism. Particular consideration of literary and cultural contexts, including sermon stories, histories, medical and legal texts, polemics and religious tracts.

Maximum Enrollment

12

(Social Structural and Institutional Hierarchies.)

Credits

1

Prerequisite

three courses in literature.

Offered

Spring

Notes

(History or SSIH). Open to juniors and seniors only.