In this course, we will consider both idealized and misogynist depictions of women as characters in Middle English texts as well as the often complicated ways these stereotyped portrayals relate to one another. We will also study women as writers; among our course texts will be the first two books known to be written in English by women. Several of our readings will be religious, including some truly surprising miracles of the Virgin Mary, and stories of tenacious and daring female martyrs. But we will study a number of secular texts, too, including a poem about a woman who brews beer and stories featuring witches. This course will change how you think about the Middle Ages!
Course Requirements:
Students will take one exam based on the historical context we discuss early in the term and write 4 short (550-600 words) and 2 longer (1800-2000 words) papers.
Intended Audience: