Course info

ME5204 is the second of two core modules that address the interpretation and criticism of medieval sources. This module builds on the interpretative skills learned in ME5203. This term we move from looking at one source and/or one genre to assembling and analysing a corpus of primary source evidence in order to address an historiographically-relevant question. The module will improve your awareness of source-critical issues and the methodological choices to be made in weighing evidence. It will also develop your understanding of historiography and the role that it plays in shaping research questions and methodologies.

Weeks 4-8 comprise a series of discussions with medieval historians here at St Andrews. Across these sessions, we will focus on how medieval historians develop their research projects and select and assemble their materials. Each week we will read a staff member’s publication alongside the historiography and sources upon which it was built.