510:337. Medieval Kings and Queens
This course examines the nature and evolution of rulership in Europe, principally in
the medieval period. It will begin with examination of the two major traditions from
which medieval rulership was created, that is, Imperial Rome and early Germanic
kingship. It will then examine a series of medieval rulers as case studies in the ways
rulership evolved in tandem with changes in medieval society generally, ending
with several influential rulers of the 16th century. Important themes we will follow
include: the role of religion and of the Church; the development of bureaucracies
and developed governmental systems; changing ideals of rulership over time;
warfare and territorial expansion; rivals to royal power; and, throughout, the roles
of women in perpetuating, undermining, and/or acquiring for themselves ruling
power. Readings will be a mix of primary sources and scholarly overviews of
particular rulers, and include a few films. Students will be assessed based on three
short (2-page) essays on specific topics, as well as longer midterm and final essays
considering larger questions of evolution in rulership over time.