Medieval and Early Modern Studies Program

Our Program

Develop a nuanced and deep understanding of the roots of our contemporary culture and modern challenges. Our program, based on an interdisciplinary theoretical framework examines topics like capitalist economies, theories of just war and pacifism, ideas on marriage and sexuality, law, the nuclear family, religious tolerance and intolerance, conquest and colonialization, immigration, ethnic identities, and the separation of church and state.

This minor complements study in majors like English, History, International Studies and Art and Visual Culture. You can also learn about and appreciate the beauties of medieval culture for its own sake, such as troubadour literature, medieval music, manuscript painting, Gothic art and architecture, Arthuriuan romance, and Chaucer.

Each year, we welcome a distinguished scholar of the Middle Ages for a campus lecture. Among our past speakers are:

• Richard Gyug, History, Fordham University, on the history of pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago.
• Paul Hyams, History, Cornell University, on feud and vendetta in medieval English law and society.
• Mary Elizabeth Perry, History, Occidental College, on Muslim women in late medieval and early modern Spain.
• Joan Mueller, Theology, Creighton University, on Clare of Assisi and the privileges of poverty among nuns.
• Martin Foys, Art History, Hood College, on print and digital media, and early medieval expression in the Bayeux embroidery.