LFU:online

Acquisition of skills for dealing with historic sources and studies critically, as well as the competence to present the newly-gained knowledge verbally and/or in writing; Acquisition of the competence to apply methods of auxiliary sciences.

Where does our writing come from and why did earlier generations use different types of writing than we do today? The course deals with this question and introduces to the paleography of the Middle Ages. In addition to reading medieval scripts, the main focus is on learning about the development of writing. Together we will describe medieval manuscripts, work out the characteristics of certain types of writing and discuss the possi-bilities of dating based on the script.

Examples are used to familiarize students with some of the development stages and forms of writing in the Middle Ages, after which texts are discussed and read together. The focus of the exercise is on the acquisition of reading skills. Practical exercises based on selected source examples, discussion and presentation. Some of the assignments will be worked on in small groups.

Regular participation, contribution in class (discussion, presentation, and written course work), short written exam.

Before attending this course it is recommended to complete the VO Basic Knowledge from the Middle Ages