Program in Medieval Studies
Wednesday, September 17, 2025
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For centuries, syphilis was understood as a “New World” export to Afro-Eurasia. Recent studies have demonstrated its presence in the “Old World,” and Dr. Salmon has helped to prove its existence in medieval Europe. In this presentation, she offers compelling evidence to demonstrate the presence of syphilis in Greece, Egypt, and Mesopotamia. WARNING: disturbing images.
Friday, October 3, 2025
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Interested faculty and studenst will meet for a lunchtime discussion of a work-in-progress from Prof. Wen's new book project book on the history of Chang’an after the Tang dynasty: "A Palimpsest of Empire: The Making of Chang’an as China’s Eternal Capital." Please contact Carol Symes if you wish to participate.
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The Central Asian kingdom of Turfan clothed the bodies of the dead with used papers which reveal that an extraordinary number of travelers from all over Eurasia converged there. To provide for their needs, Turfan fashioned itself into an “envoy state” which enabled the cultural and political integration of the early medieval world.
Saturday, October 4, 2025
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Don't miss our repeat performances of plays from the Toronto York Cycle 2025! Our medieval acting troupe of Illinois students, faculty, staff, and alumni was one of 17 groups re-encating this epic medieval performance the University of Toronto on June 7th, over 18+ hours: *The Entry into Jerusalem* and *The Road to Calvary*.
Thursday, October 9, 2025
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Undergraduates and faculty in Classics and Medieval Studies are invited to mingle and make merry at this kick-off event!
Thursday, November 6, 2025
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In 14th-century Provence, the volume of contracts produced by public notaries increased rapidly from thousands each year to millions. Reliance on writing impacted even the most remote rural communities and marginalized actors, including women, peasants, and religious minorities. Why did written records become so wildly popular so quickly? What were the consequences?
Friday, November 7, 2025
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Interested faculty and students will meet for a lunchtime discussion of a work-in-progress. Please contact Carol Symes if you wish to participate.