In this module, Professor Freedman explores the paradoxes of early medieval monasticism. Key discussions include:
This module illustrates how monasticism evolved and contributed to preserving knowledge and learning in the early Middle Ages.
This introductory module sets the stage for understanding the major themes of the course. Professor Freedman discusses the crisis of the Roman Empire, highlighting:
By examining the Empire's strengths and vulnerabilities, students will gain insights into the complexities of this historical period and the reforms that were enacted to address these challenges.
In this module, Professor Freedman outlines the multifaceted crisis of the third century faced by the Roman Empire. He discusses:
The lecture culminates with an analysis of Diocletian's reforms, which aimed to stabilize the Empire through joint rule, tax reforms, and military fortification, ultimately saving it from imminent collapse.
This module focuses on the pivotal moment when Christianity became the official religion of the Roman Empire. Professor Freedman discusses:
The lecture concludes with a comparison of Diocletian's and Constantine's approaches to governance, highlighting the transformative impact of Christianity on both the Empire and the Church.
This module explores the profound changes brought about by Constantine's conversion to Christianity. Topics include:
Professor Freedman also introduces St. Augustine's Confessions and its Platonism, illustrating the tensions between emerging Christian doctrine and existing philosophical thought.
This module addresses the collapse of the Western Roman Empire as a political entity in the fifth century. Professor Freedman explores:
By analyzing these elements, the lecture presents a nuanced understanding of this critical period, indicating that while civilization changed, it did not end.
In this module, Professor Freedman examines the various barbarian kingdoms that arose in the aftermath of the Western Roman Empire's collapse. Key points include:
Additionally, the module discusses the social structures of these kingdoms, highlighting their internal conflicts and lack of economic development, and concludes with insights on the Burgundian Code.
This module investigates the survival of the Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Empire while the West collapsed. Professor Freedman discusses:
Through examining these dynamics, the module highlights the unique challenges the Byzantine Empire faced, including the rise of Iconoclasm in the seventh century.
In this module, Professor Freedman discusses the reign of Justinian, focusing on his significant contributions and challenges. Key aspects include:
Despite the achievements, the module also addresses the civil unrest stemming from heavy taxation and military defeats, showcasing the complexities of Justinian's rule.
This module introduces Clovis and the rise of the Franks, as chronicled by Gregory of Tours. Key points include:
The module highlights the unique narrative style of Gregory of Tours, emphasizing supernatural interventions and the miraculous in Frankish history.
This module examines Merovingian society and kingship in the absence of strong government. Key elements discussed include:
Professor Freedman concludes with a brief overview of the decline of the Merovingians, emphasizing the fragility of their rule and social structure.
This module discusses the significance of Britain and Ireland during the early Middle Ages. Professor Freedman highlights:
The module concludes with a discussion on the cultural accomplishments of both regions and their respective influences on Christianity.
In this module, Professor Freedman explores the paradoxes of early medieval monasticism. Key discussions include:
This module illustrates how monasticism evolved and contributed to preserving knowledge and learning in the early Middle Ages.
This module introduces the origins and life of Mohammed, setting the context for the rise of Islam. Key points include:
Professor Freedman discusses how Islam initially paralleled Christianity and Judaism before establishing its unique identity, concluding with a preview of the subsequent Arab conquests.
This module discusses the Islamic conquests and the internal divisions that arose within the Muslim community. Key topics include:
Professor Freedman concludes by examining the transition of Islam from a primarily Arab identity to a more diverse religious community.
This module focuses on the Abbasid dynasty and its contributions to Islamic civilization. Key points include:
Professor Freedman highlights advancements in mathematics and astronomy, showcasing the Abbasids' role in preserving and expanding knowledge during this period.
In this module, Professor Freedman continues discussing the Abbasids, focusing on their cultural assimilation and decline. Key topics include:
The module concludes with a discussion of the Pirenne thesis, emphasizing the impact of Islam on the Mediterranean and the rise of Northern Europe.
This module surveys major trends in Byzantine history from the sixth to the eleventh century. Professor Freedman divides the period into four main sections:
The module highlights the conflicts over iconography and the significance of religious controversies during these transformative years in Byzantine history.
This module focuses on the Carolingian dynasty, particularly Charlemagne's rise to power. Key topics discussed include:
Professor Freedman emphasizes Charlemagne's role in shaping Europe politically and culturally, considering him a foundational figure in European history.
This module discusses the Carolingian Renaissance, a revival of learning initiated by Charlemagne and his successors. Key points include:
Professor Freedman concludes with references to Einhard's writings, illustrating the relationship between educated elites and the common populace during this transformative period.
This final module addresses the crisis faced by the Carolingian Empire, focusing on the factors leading to its decline. Key discussions include:
Professor Freedman emphasizes the significance of this period in shaping the political landscape of Europe, despite the eventual fragmentation of Charlemagne's empire.
This module discusses the emergence of the Vikings from Scandinavia in the ninth and tenth centuries. Key points include:
Professor Freedman concludes the course by reflecting on the significant developments from 284 to 1000 that laid the groundwork for the rise of Europe and Christendom.