79-110 Introduction to the Medieval Mediterranean World
9 units, Carnegie Mellon University
This introductory class addresses the many transformations of the medieval west from late antiquity until the dawn of modernity c. 1600 C.E.. Our study will center on the Mediterranean Sea as a focal point of spiritual, intellectual, artistic, diplomatic, and economic exchange. We will emphasize the role played by peoples of three interconnected continents Africa, Europe, and Asia in an age when Christians, Muslims, and Jews, along with communities of other faiths, engaged one another in both conflict and collaboration. In particular, our conversations will address the expansions of the Abrahamic faiths the evolving attitudes behind religious expression, pilgrimages, and holy war the creation of distinct cultural and ethnic neighborhoods in trading capitals such as Constantinople, Venice, and Palermo and the Mediterraneans farranging influence along traderoutes, from the Mali Empires caravans of gold to the North Seas ports and Baltic amber roads. Ultimately, we will seek to view the Mediterraneans medieval legacy as one of vibrancy, diversity, and subject to constant growth and reform. Our sources reflect such varietyand may include scripture, local chronicles, travelogues, personal memoirs, poetry, and courtly music, and we will also cover food, art, and architecture. Course expectations will include active participation in discussions, short thematic essays, and unit exams.
Prerequisites: none listed
Offered: Spring 2027
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