Knights, Travelers, and Mystics

Undergraduate

This course explores the literary worlds and real-life worldviews of medieval knights, travelers, and mystics. We first delve into chivalric romance, narrative poetry populated by proud knights and ingenious princesses, fierce giants and cannibal kings, and obsessed with the history of the Crusades and Europe’s myriad engagements with Islamic societies. Next, we immerse ourselves in the experiences of travelers and pilgrims as they move through a world of miraculous wonders and destabilizing encounters. Finally, we explore the mystical lives of holy women, marked by visions of heavenly glory, hell and purgatory, and union with God. Throughout the course, English writings are brought into conversation with continental European and Arabic works of poetry and prose (offered in translation). WR , HU MW 2:35pm-3:50pm