Course Schedule and Catalog

Department: History

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Seminar

Credit Hours: 3

Description: THE AGE OF THE CRUSADES ***** Beginning in the late 11th century, crusades were launched against Muslims in the Near East and Spain, Jews in central Europe, pagans in the Eastern Europe and the Baltic countries, Mongols, heretics, schismatics such as the Greek and Russian orthodox, and political enemies in general. Concepts of "holy and just war" emerged among the opponents, and new expresions of religious beliefs entailed the encounter with foreign and strange worlds, opening up new possibilities for trade and the economy. This seminar course will discuss characteristics of the crusades and explore to what extent and in what ways fundamentalism created globalization in medieval Europe. Discussions will include primary and secondary sources as well as Umberto Eco's new novel, "Baudolino". Limited enrollment. ***** Also offered as Mdst 447.