HIST 388: Topics in European History

HIST 388-004: Medieval Monasticism
(Fall 2012)

10:30 AM to 11:45 AM MW

Nguyen Engineering Building 1107

Section Information for Fall 2012

This course focuses on the origins and development of Christian monasticism as one of the central institutions of medieval Europe. We will explore some of the essential moments in the monastic tradition and the changing meaning of monastic ideals through close readings of a series of primary sources. Problems to be addressed include the appeal of sexual renunciation and other ascetic practices in late antique society, debates about the possibility of earthly perfection, monastic art and architecture, the elaboration of communal forms of monastic living, and the economic, cultural, and political impact of Benedictine monasticism on the development of western Europe. We will also examine the progressive reforms and shifting ideas of reform of the institution from the desert fathers of Syria and Egypt in the third century to Francis of Assisi and his followers in the thirteenth.

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Course Information from the University Catalog

Credits: 3

Study of historical topics or periods of special interest. Notes: Topics announced in advance. May be repeated for credit when topic is different. May be repeated within the term.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Lec/Sem #1, Lec/Sem #2, Lec/Sem #3, Lec/Sem #4, Lec/Sem #5, Lec/Sem #6, Lec/Sem #7, Lec/Sem #8, Lec/Sem #9, Lecture, Sem/Lec #10, Sem/Lec #11, Sem/Lec #12, Sem/Lec #13, Sem/Lec #14, Sem/Lec #15, Sem/Lec #16, Sem/Lec #17, Sem/Lec #18
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

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