Introduction to Topics in History (292-0-22)

Topic

Witches, Heretics, and Demons

Instructors

Paul Ramirez
847/491-7444
Harris Hall Room 233

Meeting Info

Harris Hall L04: Tues, Thurs 3:30PM - 4:50PM

Overview of class

The Inquisition is one of the most infamous and misunderstood institutions in the early modern world. This seminar examines some of the myths and debates surrounding the working of its tribunals and their impact on society, with special emphasis on the practices, experiences, and worldviews of ordinary subjects. How have the records of the Inquisition been used to reconstruct the histories of the Jewish diaspora, African healers, bigamists, homosexuals, and "witches," among others? Participants will pursue their own answers and construct an alternate archive by which to tell the stories of prosecuted figures. Topics include religious tolerance and intolerance; healing and love magic in the Americas; the policing and politics of gender and sexuality; and the lives of Jewish conversos.

Learning Objectives

(1) Develop written and oral communication skills in weekly meetings and presentations; (2) Assess some of the ways scholars have understood the origin, impact, and legacies of the Inquisition; (3) Reflect on how historians use primary sources as evidence to develop a historical argument; (4) Develop the analytical skills necessary to understand and argue from primary sources and secondary literature

Evaluation Method

Class participation 25%; Weekly reading journal 25%; Archival Object assignment 20%; Final essay with source analysis 30%

Class Notes

History Major Concentration(s): Americas
History Minor Concentration(s): Latin America

Class Attributes

Historical Studies Foundational Discipline
Historical Studies Distro Area

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Only History majors and minors can currently enroll in this class.