Spring 2009

WGS 345 • Saints Francis and Clare-W

Course Description

This senior-level undergraduate seminar explores the lives of St. Francis (1181-1226) and St. Clare (1194-1253) in medieval context and modern representation. Discussing the rich and controversial material about these historical figures- from medieval saints' lives, songs, plays and artistic representations to modern novels, movies, and operas- students will analyze and write about questions that troubled the medieval world and still affect our own. Out topics include the virtues of poverty and wealth; the ascetic expression of gender and sexuality; the reality of miracles and stigmata; personal, civic, and church-based expressions of power; and the power of holy texts for Christian, Muslims, and Jews.

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