HIST 823A History Writing in the Early Middle Ages
One of the most vibrant areas of research in early medieval history is the growth of historical writing and the careful cultivation of memory in the period from the sixth through eleventh centuries. The Carolingian dynasty in particular consciously patronized authors of historical texts, and encouraged the use of history writing as a vehicle for political polemic. At the same time, monasteries were centers of liturgical memory, a process often directed by aristocratic women both within and without the cloister. This course will explore the role of history writing and memory in the early Middle Ages. We will begin by reading together a Carolingian historical text, in combination with secondary literature on the field. Each student will then select their own historical work to study and the final section of the class will be devoted to class discussion of each student's independent research. While the common readings will emphasize early medieval sources, students can work on a history from any period of the Middle Ages. NB: reading knowledge of Latin is required.