Introduction to Ancient and Medieval Studies

Lecture: M 1-2:30, 66-160
Recitation 1: W 1-2:30, 66-160

Explores the fascinating history, culture, and society of the ancient and medieval worlds and the different methodologies scholars use to interpret them.  Wrestles with big questions about the diversity of life and thought in pre-modern societies, the best ways to study the distant past, and the nature (and limitations) of knowledge about long-ago eras.  Considers a wide rande of scholarly subjects such as the rise and fall of the Roman empire, the triumph of Christianity and Islam, barbarian invasions and holy wars, courts and castles, philosophy and religion, and the diversity of art, literature, and politics.  Ponders different types of evidence, reads across a variety of disciplines, and develops skills to identify continuities and changes in ancient and medieval socieites.

Related Subjects

Offered Fall 2025

Catalog Subject Faculty Level HASS Category
21H.130

The Ancient World: Greece

Lecture: MW 11-12, 3-133
Recitation 1: F 11-12, 66-154
Recitation 2: F 12-1, 66-154
Eric Driscoll

Introductory HASS-H CI-H
21H.133

The Medieval World

TR 9:30-11, 4-257
Eric J. Goldberg Introductory HASS-H
21H.239

The City of Rome in the Age of the Caesars

TR 3:30-5, E51-385
William Broadhead Intermediate HASS-H
21H.240

The World of Charlemagne

TR 1-2:30, E51-385
Eric J. Goldberg Intermediate HASS-H CI-H

Not Offered This Term