HIST 611A Problems in Carolingian History
The Carolingian period saw the unification of the majority of Western Europe under one polity and concomitant changes in western politics, religion, and culture, ranging from the development of Caroline miniscule handwriting, to the formation of an alliance between the Frankish monarchy and the papacy, to a rediscovery of Roman ivory-working techniques. The course will introduce students to this transitional period of western history by exploring topics currently debated by scholars, such as the nature of changes in rulership or the contexts for economic growth. Students will be exposed to both classics in the field and to some new approaches. Readings will be in English, although those able to read in French or German will be encouraged to do so.