Medieval and Renaissance Studies (MARS)

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The Medieval and Renaissance periods (c. 500-1600 CE) in Europe and the Mediterranean world saw the transformation of the Roman Empire and the emergence of European nation-states; the rise of two world religions (Christianity and Islam) and the fragmentation of Christianity in the Reformation era; the rise of European exploration and imperialism from the age of the crusades to the age of discovery; revolutions in political theory, theology, and science; and unparalleled achievement in art and literature, ranging from Gothic cathedrals to the works of Chaucer, Dante, and Shakespeare.  Students exploring this period through their work in the Medieval and Renaissance Studies minor (MARS) will have the opportunity both to study the foundations of familiar aspects of modern Western culture (universities, parliamentary government, the novel) and to experience the more exotic elements of the period. 

Students pursuing the minor have the opportunity to take classes across a number of departments and programs in order to achieve a rich and multifaceted understanding of this complex era.  Students will also be able to take advantage of the wonderful collections of Medieval and Renaissance art and cultural productions at the Art Institute and Newberry Library.

 

Courses Offered Next Year, 2012-13:

Fall: English 210, 211; History 204; Theater 230

Spring: Art History 380; English 210, 211, 220; History 320; Theater 236

 

Video from Professor Bevington’s recent lecture on Ophelia: