Western Christendom, once unified under a single church, was fractured permanently in the sixteenth century giving rise to religious wars and the widespread action against heresy. In the same period, the earth centred model of the universe was demonstrated to be false and new scientific epistemologies emerged. Seemingly in contradiction to these scientific developments, this was also the main period of witch trials. While Europe remained profoundly misogynist and hetero-normative, we also find startling cases of feminist ideas, radical gender expression, and queer sexualities. Focussing on original texts, this course explores the relationship of tradition and dissent, rebellion and authority in this tumultuous period. Weekly hours: 3 Lecture hoursPrerequisite(s): 3 credit
Western Christendom, once unified under a single church, was fractured permanently in the sixteenth century giving rise to religious wars and the widespread action against heresy. In the same period, the earth centred model of the universe was demonstrated to be false and new scientific epistemologies emerged. Seemingly in contradiction to these scientific developments, this was also the main period of witch trials. While Europe remained profoundly misogynist and hetero-normative, we also find startling cases of feminist ideas, radical gender expression, and queer sexualities. Focussing on original texts, this course explores the relationship of tradition and dissent, rebellion and authority in this tumultuous period. Weekly hours: 3 Lecture hoursPrerequisite(s): 3 credit
