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Gender and Sexuality in the Middle Ages

Key information

  • Module code:

    7AAEM974

  • Level:

    7

  • Semester:

      Autumn

  • Credit value:

    15

Module description

The medieval has a special relationship with gender and sexuality, whether it is imagined as the period which saw the invention of heterosexual eroticism or as a period which preceded sexuality as we know it. Gender has become an important analytical category for a generation of medievalists, who examine the ways in which masculinity and femininity are mapped in relation to one another, the extent to which gender identity can be understood as 'performative', and the relationship between concepts of gender and the regulation of sexuality. This course provides a space in which to engage with current critical debates about the reading and interpretation of medieval writings, particularly with respect to gender and queer theory. It also situates medieval constructions of gender in their historical, social and religious contexts. Crucially, it will not be assumed that gender is simply a 'woman's concern': masculinity and non-normative notions of gender and sexuality will form an important part of our investigations. 

Assessment details

4000-word essay

Teaching pattern

One two-hour seminar, weekly

Subject areas

Department

Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.