University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 10

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: 3.00 pm - 5.00 pm Tue (lecture) and either 10.00 am or 12.00 noon Thu (seminar)

This module will examine the art, images, and material culture of Christian devotion in Northern Europe, from 1100 to 1500. When medieval people entered their parish churches, or when pilgrims reached saints¿ shrines, what kinds of objects did they interact with? What did they carry with them? From reliquaries, to books of hours, and pilgrim souvenirs, students will learn about the objects that facilitated religious practice and those that were themselves the subject of veneration. Students will also learn about the development of lay devotion in the later Middle Ages, and be able to identify the political, economic, and social contexts in which these objects functioned. This immersive study of medieval material culture will be supplemented by a hands-on session with manuscripts at the University's Special Collections department.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 1 x 2-hour lecture per week (x 10 weeks); 1 x 1-hour seminar per week (x 10 weeks)

Scheduled learning hours: 30

Guided independent study hours: 280

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 100%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 0%

Re-assessment: 1 x Written Assignment to be agreed by the Board of Examiners

Personnel

Module coordinator: Professor K M Rudy
Module teaching staff: Dr E Savage