Magic in the Middle Ages Course from Coursers

Studying magic in the Middle Ages sounds fascinating! Are you interested in resources for such a course, or are you looking for information on specific topics within medieval magic?

Skills you will gain

Taking a course on Magic in the Middle Ages can provide you with a variety of valuable skills:

  1. Middle East Knowledge: Exploring the intersection of magic and culture in the Middle Ages can deepen your understanding of Middle Eastern history, culture, and belief systems. You’ll gain insights into how magical practices evolved and were perceived within the context of medieval Islamic societies.
  2. Astronomy: Studying astrology as part of medieval magic can enhance your understanding of astronomical principles and how they were applied in divination and magical practices during that time. You’ll learn about the historical development of astrology and its significance in medieval society.
  3. History: Through the lens of magic, you’ll delve into medieval history, gaining insights into the social, cultural, and religious dynamics of the period. Analyzing historical documentation related to magic and witchcraft can sharpen your historical research and analytical skills.
  4. Anthropology: Understanding magical beliefs and practices in medieval society offers a unique perspective on anthropology. You’ll explore how magic functioned as a cultural phenomenon, influencing social norms, identities, and interactions within medieval communities.

By acquiring these skills, you’ll develop a comprehensive understanding of magic in the Middle Ages and its broader implications for Middle Eastern culture, astronomy, history, and anthropology.

What you will learn

This course on Magic in the Middle Ages sounds like a comprehensive exploration of a captivating topic. Here’s a breakdown of the syllabus:

Week 1: Introduction to Medieval Magic

  • This week likely provides an overview of the course objectives, introduces key concepts in medieval magic, and sets the stage for deeper exploration.

Week 2: Magic & Heresy

  • This week might delve into the intersection between magic and religious beliefs, particularly focusing on how certain magical practices were viewed as heretical by medieval authorities.

Week 3: From Magic to Witchcraft

  • Building upon the previous week’s discussion, this week may explore the evolution of magical practices into accusations of witchcraft during the Middle Ages.

Week 4: Magic in Islam

  • This week seems to expand the scope to include magical practices within the Islamic world, highlighting the cross-cultural exchange of magical ideas between the East and the West during the medieval period.

Week 5: Astrology & Geomancy

  • The final week appears to concentrate on specific branches of medieval magic, such as astrology and geomancy, likely exploring their significance, practices, and cultural context during the Middle Ages.

The course objectives are ambitious, aiming to challenge common misconceptions about the Middle Ages, develop analytical skills in interpreting historical documentation related to magic, and differentiate between various forms of magical practices. Additionally, the inclusion of subtitles in multiple languages enhances accessibility for a diverse range of students.

Overall, this course promises to provide a rich understanding of medieval society through the lens of magic, shedding light on both popular and learned magical traditions and their societal implications.