Survey of the Middle Ages: Christendom

Medieval Humanities focuses on the time period from the decline of Ancient Rome to the 1300s. Because this is an extremely important and expansive time period, students begin by creating a timeline of the period, dividing it into three sections (the Early Middle Ages, the High Middle Ages, and the Late Middle Ages), and recording the key events of these periods. Along with an overview of the events of these periods, students spend time learning the physical and political geography of modern-day Europe, which finds its roots in the Early Middle Ages. There is an emphasis on art and culture throughout this course. For the research project, emphasis is placed on non-internet sources. The students are challenged to use books, interviews, newspaper articles, etc., and as a very last resort, websites are permitted with the approval of the teacher. One of our goals in enabling the students to see primary documents and research collections is to give them a better understanding and appreciation for the work that goes into information collection and organization. This is an invaluable lesson in this age of information and an important outcome of a Montessori education—an appreciation for the work that has been done before us and from which we have so greatly benefitted. This research is shared with their peers at the culminating “Presentation Day,” giving each student a broader understanding of the period of study.