University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 9

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: TBC

This module will examine the changing attitudes towards wealth, poverty and conspicuous consumption and the relationship between the rich and the poor. It will discuss the chivalric virtue of largesse, the Franciscan ideal of holy poverty and the theological obligations of charity and see what impact these ideas had on the actual organisation and activity of lay and monastic households and their provision for the poor. Topics covered will include: fasting and feasting; status and clothing; gesture and the interaction between rich and poor (maundy foot-washing, touching for the kings evil etc); insulting the poor as part of almsgiving; the obligations of the rich towards the poor; the role of charity in salvation and whether the handouts given to the poor provided a real support system.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact:

Scheduled learning hours: 33

Guided independent study hours: 267

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews:

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 60%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 40%

Personnel