Medieval and Renaissance Studies
Advisor: Giovanni Spani
Stein 452
Associate Director of Concentrations: Susan Cunningham
Smith 331
Academic Administrative Assistant: Theresa Michniewicz
Connection to Our Mission
The goals of the Medieval and Renaissance Studies Program are closely allied with the College’s mission: to explore “meaning in life and history,” and, in a special way, to enable “all who choose to do so to encounter the intellectual heritage of Catholicism.”
There is virtually no aspect of historical or literary inquiry into this time that does not reflect the presence of religious belief and traditions. With three major world religions — Judaism, Christianity, and Islam — rising in the Mediterranean basin, this period offers a highly relevant model for contemporary study of the interaction of cultures. Study of the medieval and early modern world is fundamental for understanding many of the current pressures that are again opening the world to a renewed internationalism.
Advising
Students design and propose majors and minors in consultation with the director of the Center for Interdisciplinary Studies and members of the faculty. Students receive ongoing counsel and support in planning their academic program and typically build close relationships with these advisors.
Preparation for Graduate Work
Majors and minors who plan on pursuing graduate study will have a distinct advantage at institutions with medieval and renaissance programs at the graduate level. Students considering such programs are strongly encouraged to study Latin.