131-110 Medieval Europe: Plague, War & Heresy

The subject examines the period 1300-1450, often described as a time of calamity, turmoil and extraordinary crisis, but also one of cultural innovation and social transformation. It will focus on such topics as the Black Death; the ravages of the Hundred Years War; the Great Schism in the Church; the heresies of the Templars, Free Spirit, and Lollards; the social upheaval of the English Peasant War and the Ciompi in Florence; the persecution and expulsion of Jewish communities; national reform movements such as the Bohemian Hussites; the burgeoning urban culture of Italy, Burgundy and northern Germany. We also explore the role of key figures such as Joan of Arc, Emperor Charles IV, Christine de Pisan, Dante, Petrarch and Cosimo de Medici.

• demonstrate research skills through competent use of the library and other information sources;

• show critical thinking and analysis through recommended reading, essay writing and tutorial discussion, and by determining the strength of an argument;

• demonstrate understanding of social, ethical and cultural context through the contextualisation of judgements, developing a critical self-awareness, being open to new ideas and possibilities and by constructing an argument.

A tutorial journal 15% (due early in the semester), a document exercise of 1500 words 15% (due mid-semester), a 2500 word research essay 60% (due at the end of semester) and class participation 10%.

A subject reader will be available.