When we think of the Middle Ages we tend to think of lords and peasants. It’s an image of the striking social inequalities that has come to us through the literature and history associated with the period. The reality of the Middle Ages was far more complicated. In this course, we will explore a range of themes relating to status, gender, technology, and daily life. The course offers an introduction to the theory and practice of medieval archaeology, illustrated by a series of case studies. A special feature of the course is that we will learn by doing – using experimental archaeology as a means to explore medieval cultures. NEW to the course this year, we will also be addressing the ways in which the Middle Ages have been co-opted by white supremacist groups to create false narratives of racial purity and ethnic homelands.

Please see the course website:

https://onlineacademiccommunity.uvic.ca/medi360sample/