3 credits
Fall 2026 Lecture Upper DivisionVariable Title
This course offers an in-depth exploration of key texts and themes from medieval English literature, focusing on the period roughly from the 9th to the 15th century. With an emphasis on texts' historical, cultural, and literary contexts, this course examines genres such as epic, romance, religious allegory, and early drama. Key topics include the nature of early English heroism as derived from the Germanic/Norse traditions, the development of chivalric and romance literature from the French tradition, the role of women in medieval narratives, the development of the English language, and the intersection of secular and religious thought.
Learning Outcomes1Identify and recall key works of medieval literature along with their authors, historical contexts, and major themes.
2Demonstrate an understanding of the major literary genres and forms in medieval literature and will explain their cultural and historical significance.
3Apply critical concepts and methodologies in medieval literary studies to interpret and analyze primary texts within their historical and social contexts.
4Analyze the representation of key themes in medieval literature and will compare these representations across different works and traditions.
5Evaluate scholarly interpretations of medieval texts, critically assessing different critical approaches and methodologies, and developing informed, evidence-based arguments.
Restrictions
made by Purdue students.