Overview

Students who enter the MA programme will have obtained some familiarity with the Middle Ages from the perspective of one particular discipline. The course is designed to introduce students to the breadth of subject areas and methodologies subsumed under the umbrella of medieval studies as broadly understood. Scholars from Bangor will lead thematic sessions on individual aspects (such as archaeology, history, literature, liturgy, music) and advanced skills pivotal to medievalist research (specialised reference sources and databases). Additionally, students will encounter cutting-edge research presented by scholars from Bangor and beyond in the research seminar series offered by individual Schools and Research Centres within the College of Arts, Humanities and Business. These sessions on 'Understanding the Middle Ages' will vary year on year, depending on the availability of staff and the students’ core interests.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold (-C 50%>) Work which displays basic, restricted knowledge of the subject with simple ability at conceptual thought, and a limited awareness of issues, but has some evidence of a generally intellectual approach, with fair expression.

-good (-B 60%>) The work should display a sound grasp of the subject, a good level of conceptual thought, awareness of the main issues, with evidence of intellectual acumen and good expression.

-excellent (-A 70%>) Work which displays a thorough grasp of the subject, with evidence of further study, deep thought, originality of approach and excellent written skills.

Learning Outcomes

• Acquired enhanced study and research skills related to medieval studies as broadly understood.

• On completion of the module students will have acquired detailed knowledge of current trends in medieval studies, covering a range of different disciplines.

• On completion of the module students will have learned to assess critically the research methodologies of different disciplines within medieval studies.

• On completion of the modules students will have acquired detailed knowledge of research methodologies as practised by different disciplines.