Focuses on ideas, arts, and practices characteristic of the Middle Ages as portrayed in English literature before 1485, with some reference to influences from the continent. Brief overviews of the oral formulaic tradition of Old English poetry and the historical and legendary works of Bede and Geoffrey of Monmouth form a preliminary backdrop for the period. Selections from Chaucer's Canterbury Tales in the original Middle English introduce students to the roots of their language and provide examples of literary genres such as fabliau, fable, exemplum, and the Breton lay of Marie de France. Through Thomas Malory?s Morte D'Arthur students analyze another popular medieval genre, the prose romance, and explore Arthurian themes that have pervaded literature into modern times. In addition to these major works, some attention is also given to samples of medieval drama, mysticism, and allegorical social satire. Readings highlight estates satire, the church's use of literature and art as a teaching device, and contradictory images of medieval anti-feminism vs. the veneration of women. [ 3 credits ]