MRST

Not offered in 2026/27.

Subject

MRST

Credits (min)

0.5

Credits (max)

0.5

Credit unit

unit(s)

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027

Catalog

Catalogue 2026-2027

Source

catalogue.vassar.edu

(Same as MEDS 220 ) This course offers a survey of the history of books and manuscripts from late antiquity to the early modern period, with a focus on developments in the West. We begin with discussion of scrolls and early codices, and then examine how manuscripts were produced during the medieval period. Next we consider some high points in manuscript production in different places and times. Some attention is given to early printed books as well. The course includes guest lectures by Vassar faculty, and direct work with manuscripts in the Vassar Library. Marc Epstein, Ronald Patkus. Two 75-minute periods. Not offered in 2026/27. Course Format: CLS

Subject

MRST

Credits (min)

1

Credits (max)

1

Credit unit

unit(s)

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027

Catalog

Catalogue 2026-2027

Source

catalogue.vassar.edu

(Same as HIST 221 and STS 221 ) Science and technology: the very words seem synonymous with “modernity.” Yet, crucial developments in scientific knowledge and application occurred during the Middle Ages, forming the foundation for the Scientific Revolution. This interdisciplinary course offers an introduction to science and technology in medieval Europe and the Mediterranean world, exploring the influence of classical, East Asian, and Arab learning, and the rise of empiricism and experimentation. Through readings, discussions, and hands-on activities, we examine developments in monasteries, universities, castles, and farms. Topics may include beer making, beekeeping, alchemy, siege warfare, watermills, astrology, plagues, and medicine. Nancy Bisaha, José Perillán. Two 75-minute periods. Course Format: CLS

Subject

MRST

Credits (min)

1

Credits (max)

1

Credit unit

unit(s)

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027

Catalog

Catalogue 2026-2027

Source

catalogue.vassar.edu

Offered

Spring

(Same as HIST 224 and WFQS 224 ) This course offers a study of the intersections of gender, religion, class, ethnicity, race, and (dis)ability in various medieval and early modern contexts. Authors, genres, critical and theoretical approaches, historical coverage, and themes may vary from year to year. Two 75-minute periods. Not offered in 2026/27. Course Format: CLS

Subject

MRST

Credits (min)

1

Credits (max)

1

Credit unit

unit(s)

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027

Catalog

Catalogue 2026-2027

Source

catalogue.vassar.edu

Representations of the Medieval and Renaissance periods in popular culture and political discourse tend, implicitly or explicitly, to center a very narrow set of identities: male, Christian, Western European, and white. The purpose of this intensive is to provide an opportunity for students to learn about the disciplinary history that produced that narrow vision of the medieval period and to reflect on the ideological investments that maintain that vision in modern times. We consider how an expanded understanding of these periods with regards to gender and sexuality, religious difference, eurocentrism, and race can transform the way we understand the relevance of the Medieval and Renaissance worlds to contemporary concerns. After reflecting on how attention to these different axes of identity can broaden their perspective on the Medieval or Renaissance world (as shaped by popular culture, previous coursework, or other encounters with that history), participants formulate and conduct a self-designed project that examines one or more of those aspects of identity or geography in connection with their own interests. These projects may take the form of traditional research papers or employ other media or formats, such as online publication, performance, or visual arts.

Subject

MRST

Credits (min)

0.5

Credits (max)

0.5

Credit unit

unit(s)

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027

Catalog

Catalogue 2026-2027

Source

catalogue.vassar.edu

Prerequisite

Permission of the instructor. One 75-minute period. Not offered in 2026/27. Course Format: INT

0.5 to 1 unit(s) The Department. Course Format: INT

Subject

MRST

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027

Catalog

Catalogue 2026-2027

Source

catalogue.vassar.edu

Offered

Fall and Spring

0.5 to 1 unit(s) The Department. Course Format: OTH

Subject

MRST

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027

Catalog

Catalogue 2026-2027

Source

catalogue.vassar.edu

Offered

Fall and Spring

An interdisciplinary study written over two semesters under the supervision of two advisors from two different disciplines. The Department. Yearlong course 300- MRST 301 . Course Format: INT

Subject

MRST

Credits (min)

0.5

Credits (max)

0.5

Credit unit

unit(s)

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027

Catalog

Catalogue 2026-2027

Source

catalogue.vassar.edu

Offered

Fall

An interdisciplinary study written over two semesters under the supervision of two advisors from two different disciplines. The Department. Yearlong course MRST 300 -301. Course Format: INT

Subject

MRST

Credits (min)

0.5

Credits (max)

0.5

Credit unit

unit(s)

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027

Catalog

Catalogue 2026-2027

Source

catalogue.vassar.edu

Offered

Spring

An interdisciplinary study written during one semester under the supervision of two advisors from two different disciplines. The Department. Course Format: INT

Subject

MRST

Credits (min)

1

Credits (max)

1

Credit unit

unit(s)

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027

Catalog

Catalogue 2026-2027

Source

catalogue.vassar.edu

Offered

Fall or Spring

0.5 to 1 unit(s) The Department. Course Format: OTH

Subject

MRST

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027

Catalog

Catalogue 2026-2027

Source

catalogue.vassar.edu

Offered

Fall and Spring