Women and Western Culture                                                                          Class Notes 10/11/01
 

Agenda:
 


Middle Ages (Dark Ages):

    500-1500 Europe; time between Classical and Renaissance. People understood the structure of society in three orders. At the the "top" of society, could be known as the aristocrats, there were those who prayed, and those who fought. All the rest were those who worked.
 

Trobairitz: they are female poet musicians. The male equivalent is a Troubador. The writings of the Trobairitz are not as well preserved as the writings of their male counterparts- as usual. These people were in Languedoc- part of France, and were part of a very rich courtly love tradition.
 

Hildegard: She was pledged to a nunnery at the age of 8. She wrote treatises on medicine. The first to apply the medical theories of the time to women. She also composed poetry and music. Throughout her life she had migraine headaches. She would have visions during these migraines, and claimed them to be the presence of the Lord. She was a an elitist, and saw herself as the wife of God, so she wore extravagant clothing.

After we spoke of these types of women, we listened to some of the music that has been preserved. Although it was not in English the professor provided the translations. Very beautiful music, which when interpreted revealed things about the lives and thoughts of these women. If you are interested in the songs we listened to, i am sure we could get you a copy of the translations.

The prospectus was handed back today.
For tuesday be prepared for some different reading, kind of difficult. There is a quiz on Tuesday so do your reading!!! :)
If you are revising your research paper do not forget is is due next week!