25-01 History of Christianity: The High and Late Middle Ages

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This course surveys the main themes, ideas and values of the Western church in the period between 1000 and 1500 A.D. It is an introduction to the developments in Christian theology, religion and devotion that unfolded in the course of those five centuries, one of the richest and most revolutionary in the history of the church. They saw the creation of Christian university culture, further rise of the papacy, its frequent clashes with the empire, but also the emergence of conciliarism, and a flowering of lay religiosity and mysticism. The goal of this course is to introduce students to the varied, dynamic forces that contributed to the making of the medieval church.

Course Content

Unit 1: The 11th Century- Western monasticism; the Great Schism

Unit 2: The 12th Century- The crusades; apostolic life

Unit 3: The 13th Century- Scholasticism; dealing with heresy:

Unit 4: The 14th Century- Scandal in the Church; mysticism

Unit 5: The 15th Century- Conciliarism; trouble at the University

Course Format

• Six weeks in duration; first week for orientation.
• Up to 20 students in each course.
• Text based lectures.
• Supplemental readings are provided to encourage further exploration, internet links provided for all readings.
• Written assignments (200-250) required.
• Facilitator-moderated weekly Zoom sessions with participants.

Participation Requirements

• Read the lecture for each unit.
• Read assigned texts; keep notes, questions, and comments for class discussions.
• Answer weekly discussion question. 
• Respond to weekly unit assignment.
• Attend weekly Zoom for each unit. If you cannot attend, you can still meet the participation requirements.
• Complete the course evaluation.

Time Expectations

3 to 5 hours per week, depending on your learning style and schedule.

Course Certificate

An electronic certificate of completion awarding 30 contact hours will be available in course when completing all course requirements.

Area: History