HIST 824A Christian Asceticism at the Dawn of the Middle Ages
There is still a common assumption that, by the end of the sixth century, ascetic (perhaps even "monastic") practices and institutions were poised to develop without challenge or adaptation for several hundred years. The course will explore the basis of the assumption and then deconstruct it, at least to the extent of questioning whether a single "monastic tradition" was already in place around 600 CE and destined to survive intact. The phrase "the Middle Ages" hints at a western, Latin emphasis, since the notion of the "medieval" is essentially a later western invention, reflecting attitudes increasingly prevalent after 1350 CE or so, deeply influenced by what we now think of as the "Renaissance" and "Reformation." Students will have the opportunity, however, to examine features of early ascetic culture characteristic of Greek, Coptic, and Syriac milieux. The course is offered for students not only in the "Early Christian Studies" program or the Department of History but also in theological, philosophical, classical, and Semitic sectors. It is also open to undergraduate seniors with a grade average of A or A- in their junior year, subject to the approval of the relevant Chair or Area Director, the Director of the "Early Christian studies" program, and the Instructor.