Medieval Literature: Chaucer and Beyond Online Course

This Medieval Literature: Chaucer and Beyond course provides a comprehensive exploration of the rich and diverse literary traditions of the medieval period. Learners will examine foundational texts, including Beowulf, The Romance of the Rose, Norse sagas, and the works of Dante Alighieri and Geoffrey Chaucer, alongside studies of mediaeval women writers.

The course emphasizes historical context, literary techniques, and thematic analysis, guiding students to understand how medieval literature shaped cultural and intellectual history. Participants will engage with poetry, prose, and romances, developing critical reading, analytical, and interpretive skills applicable to literary studies globally.

Through careful study, learners will appreciate the narrative strategies, symbolism, and moral and philosophical concerns of the medieval era. The program also highlights cross-cultural influences, including The Tale of Genji and European romances, revealing the interconnectedness of medieval literary traditions.

Learning Outcomes

By completing this course, learners will be able to:

1. Analyze major works of medieval literature with critical historical context.
2. Explore the narrative techniques used by Chaucer and other writers.
3. Understand themes of heroism, morality, love, and cultural symbolism.
4. Compare European and non-European literary traditions in the medieval era.
5. Appreciate contributions of mediaeval women writers to literary history.
6. Develop skills to interpret and evaluate medieval literary texts effectively.

Course Link : Medieval Literature: Chaucer and Beyond Online Course

Course Curriculum

Module 01: Introduction to Mediaeval Literature

• Understand the origins, scope, and significance of medieval literature globally.
• Explore key genres, including romance, epic, and allegorical writing.
• Analyze the historical and cultural contexts shaping medieval storytelling.

Module 02: Beowulf

• Study the epic narrative, heroic themes, and Anglo-Saxon cultural values.
• Examine literary devices and poetic structures within Beowulf’s composition.
• Analyze character development, morality, and cultural symbolism in Beowulf.

Module 03: Chrétien de Troyes

• Explore Arthurian romances and the development of chivalric literature.
• Examine narrative techniques and thematic motifs in medieval French texts.
• Understand Chrétien de Troyes’ influence on European literary traditions.

Module 04: Mediaeval Women Writers

• Discover contributions of women writers in medieval literary history.
• Analyze themes of gender, authorship, and societal expectations in texts.
• Understand the historical and cultural significance of women’s literary voices.

Module 05: The Romance of the Rose

• Study allegorical literature and its symbolic meanings in medieval culture.
• Analyze themes of love, desire, and courtly life in the text.
• Explore the poem’s influence on subsequent European literary traditions.

Module 06: The Tale of Genji

• Examine cross-cultural literary influences between Japanese and European texts.
• Study narrative structure, character complexity, and poetic symbolism in Genji.
• Understand The Tale of Genji’s global significance in medieval literature.

Module 07: Norse Sagas

• Explore the narratives, mythologies, and historical storytelling of Norse culture.
• Analyze themes of heroism, fate, and cultural values in sagas.
• Understand saga literature’s influence on later European narratives and poetry.

Module 08: Dante Alighieri

• Study Dante’s works, including The Divine Comedy, and allegorical techniques.
• Examine theological, moral, and philosophical elements in Dante’s writing.
• Understand Dante’s influence on medieval and Renaissance literary traditions.

Module 09: Pearl and Sir Gawain and the Green Knight

• Explore Middle English poetry and symbolic narrative techniques.
• Analyze chivalric values, morality, and literary allegory in texts.
• Understand linguistic, thematic, and cultural significance of these works.

Module 10: Geoffrey Chaucer

• Study Chaucer’s major works, including The Canterbury Tales and poetry.
• Analyze narrative voice, humor, and social commentary in Chaucer’s writing.
• Understand Chaucer’s pivotal role in shaping English literary traditions.

Disclaimer:

This is an online course with pre-recorded lessons. You will get access to the course within 48 hours after your enrolment.