JANINE LARMON PETERSON, Ph.D., Coordinator

Medieval and Renaissance Studies is an interdisciplinary program that offers students the ability to study the culture, history, literature, music, philosophy, politics, and religious traditions of the late antique through the early modern period. Students choose five electives from at least three different fields: English, Fine Arts (Art History and Music), History, Modern Languages and Cultures, Philosophy, Political Science, and Religious Studies. Many of these courses also fulfill Core curriculum requirements. In addition, students must fulfill a language requirement.

The minor is appropriate for students interested in investigating the antecedents of modernity; in identifying enduring cultural and philosophical issues, themes, and problems; in considering “medievalism,” or how the period is portrayed in current media and why; and in comparing and contrasting past and contemporary society. The minor takes an inclusive and global approach to the time period and so complements courses in a variety of disciplines by examining the basis for current concepts of race, gender, class, disability, fashion, politics, and globalization, among other topics. The integration of study abroad into coursework is strongly encouraged. Courses that may be applied to the minor include the following regular offerings, as well as designated special topics and study abroad courses.