Code 23421
Level of study Third/Final year
Credit value 20
Semester Scheduled 2012-13, 1&2
Pre-requisite modules none
Other pre-requisites none
The study of the crusades, from the origins of the movement in the eleventh century and its development in the course of the twelfth and thirteenth centuries, brings together the medieval west, Byzantium and Islam in an examination of religious beliefs and practices, warfare, social, political and economic history. While many use the language of crusading today, few have knowledge of its meaning and significance. In this course, you will explore the origins of crusade in the west as part of the reform movement of the church. You will have the opportunity to learn what elements in the west made possible the centuries-long movement to the east of westerners, mainly from 'France'. Study of the crusades brings into relief differences between the medieval west and Byzantium and the relations of the Byzantines and the Muslims who had conquered Byzantine territory four hundred years before the start of the crusading movement. We will also cover topics such as pilgrimage to the Holy Land, the status of Jerusalem in East and West and views of Byzantium and Islam.