Course Description: 

This course provides a detailed analysis of selected aspects of the Middle Ages from c. 1000 C.E. through the early modern period. 

Topics: 

This is a 1.0 credit course that examines religious conflict, conversion and coexistence in Western Europe between 1000 -1600. Themes explored will include the crusades, the reconquest of the Iberian Peninsula; the rise of heretical movements in the south of France, England and Central Europe; the Protestant Reformation; the Spanish Inquisition; and the advent of religious toleration. Students will read primary documents and secondary sources that discuss the inclusion and exclusion of various religious groups in European society. Students will be expected to lead one seminar on a specific theme related to religious conflict and coexistence; write a midterm exam that will assess their understanding of assigned readings and write a 3000-word research paper and deliver a seminar presentation on their research. 

Methods of Evaluation and Weights:

Attendance & Participation - 25%
Midterm Assessment - 25%
Research Presentation - 20%    
Research Paper - 30%

Learning Outcomes:

A student who has successfully completed this course will be able to: 

1. demonstrate an informed and nuanced understanding of religious conflict and coexistence in premodern Europe. 
2. evaluate and explain factors that contributed to religious conflict within a specific historical context.
3. engage in scholarly debate with peers 
4. read and analyze primary source documents in context and explain how they connect to the broader historical.
5. synthesize independent research and course readings and develop an original historical perspective.

Texts and/or Resources Required:

All texts will be made available through Courselink.

*Please note: This is a preliminary web course 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. 

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