Readings in Medieval History: Sex and Society in Medieval and Early Modern Europe
Was there a medieval war between the sexes? Did women have a Renaissance? How were the institutions of medieval life gendered? Who were the witches, wives, virgins and whores of medieval and early modern Europe? We will consider such phenomena as "holy anorexics," "bridal mysticism," the gendered nature of medieval monasticism and the construction of monasteries, and the witch hunt of early modern Europe. Through intensive analysis of both primary and secondary sources, this course will examine the history of women but also of gender in pre-modern Europe. 3 hr. sem.