Burgos: Deciphering Secrets of Medieval Spain

University of Colorado System via Coursera

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/burgos-deciphering-secrets-medieval-spain

Introduction

**Course Review: Burgos: Deciphering Secrets of Medieval Spain** As history aficionados and lifelong learners know, delving into the rich tapestry of medieval Spain is an arduous yet gratifying endeavor. The Coursera course, **"Burgos: Deciphering Secrets of Medieval Spain,"** offers a unique opportunity to engage with this fascinating period, focusing on the interplay of Jewish, Christian, and Muslim cultures, while simultaneously honing crucial skills in Spanish paleography. ### Overview This advanced course is structured around two primary goals: understanding the historical influences of diverse cultures in medieval Spain and mastering paleography, the art of reading historic handwriting. The course adopts Burgos—a city with a profound historical significance—as its focal point. It effectively dedicates 75% of its content to the practical skill of interpreting Carolingian, French, and Gothic handwriting across manuscripts dated from the 11th to the 15th centuries. ### Syllabus Breakdown The syllabus is meticulously crafted, allowing students to gradually build both their historical knowledge and paleographic skills. 1. **Course Introduction, an Abbreviated History, and 13th Century Manuscripts:** The course kicks off with an exploration of why Burgos merits attention. Students dive into 13th-century manuscripts and learn foundational concepts in paleography. 2. **Reconquista, Museum Artifacts, Religious Diversity, and 11th-13th Century Manuscripts:** This week delves into the complexities of the Spanish Reconquest, along with an examination of artifacts that highlight Christian and Muslim coexistence. Importantly, it also provides insights into the Jewish community during this period. 3. **14th Century Tragedy, Jewish and Christian Museum Artifacts, and Continuing 11th Century Manuscripts:** The narrative continues with an analysis of the 14th-century crises, including the Black Plague and civil wars. The emergence of conversos adds a personal touch to the historical narrative as students engage with contemporary artifacts and manuscripts. 4. **The End of Coexistence in Spain, 15th Century Manuscripts, and the SILREST Paleography Method:** A pivotal moment in Spanish history is explored as the class examines the unification of Catholic Spain. Students are introduced to the SILReST Paleography Method, equipping them with essential tools to decode complex manuscripts. 5. **Deciphering Secrets: 14th-15th Century Independent and Collaborative Projects:** Emphasizing teamwork and independent study, this final segment encourages students to work on transcription projects, providing a practical application of their learned skills and reinforcing their understanding of the interwoven cultures of medieval Burgos. ### Course Experience One of the course's most compelling aspects is its balance of theoretical knowledge and practical skill development. By learning about the cultural interactions during this pivotal era while actively practicing paleography, students find themselves engaged on multiple fronts. The use of virtual field trips to the Museo de Burgos is a brilliant touch, immersing students in authentic historical environments. The course is taught by knowledgeable instructors who expertly guide learners through complex subjects, ensuring clarity and promoting an engaging learning atmosphere. Additionally, the collaborative projects foster online community-building, allowing participants to share insights and learn from one another. ### Recommendation "Burgos: Deciphering Secrets of Medieval Spain" comes highly recommended for anyone passionate about history, particularly those seeking to understand the profound influences of diverse cultures in shaping modern Spain. Additionally, if you have an interest in the intricacies of manuscript studies and paleography, this course offers a robust foundation and advanced techniques that will undoubtedly enhance your skills. The hands-on approach to learning manuscript inscription is unique and essential for any aspiring historian or archivist. Completing this course not only adds depth to your understanding of Spanish history but also equips you with practical skills that can be applied in academic research or personal pursuits related to history. In summary, if you are eager to explore medieval Spain's multifaceted history while acquiring valuable paleographic skills, enrolling in this course will be a rewarding investment in your intellectual journey. The course is available on Coursera, and you can start your quest to decode the secrets of medieval Burgos today!

Syllabus

Course Introduction, an Abbreviated History, and 13th Century Manuscripts

This week we examine why we should study the history of the medieval city of Burgos – its oversized impact on Spain -- and begin our examination of 13th-century manuscripts and paleography (how to read older forms of handwriting).

Reconquista, Museum Artifacts, Religious Diversity, and 11th-13th Century Manuscripts

This week we evaluate the convoluted Spanish Christian Reconquest (Reconquista) and explore the complicated Rodrigo Diaz de Vivar “El Cid”. We view Christian and Muslim artifacts preserved at the provincial Museo de Burgos, study the Jewish and Muslim communities of the Burgos, and investigate 11th- and 13th- century manuscripts.

14th Century Tragedy, Jewish and Christian Museum Artifacts, and Continuing 11th Century Manuscripts

This week we delve into the Castilian crisis of the 14th-century -- the arrival of the Black Death (Plague), an intensive civil war, and rampant anti-Jewish violence. We explore the creation of a new Spanish identity -- the conversos -- Jewish converts to Christianity. Via virtual field trips, we visit medieval Burgos and return to the Museo de Burgos. We continue our investigation of 11th-century manuscripts, working hard to perfect our paleography skills.

The End of Coexistence in Spain, 15th Century Manuscripts, and the SILREST Paleography Method

This week we witness the end of Jewish, Christian, and Muslim coexistence in medieval Spain with the formation a united Catholic Spain under Queen Isabel and King Ferdinand. To advance our paleographic expertise, we examine 15th-century manuscripts pertain to elites’ lives and the Cathedral of Plasencia. Moreover, we study and practice using the SILReST Paleography Method for deciphering the most challenging manuscripts.

Deciphering Secrets: 14th-15th Century Independent and Collaborative Projects

During this class, not only will you be mastering your paleography skills, but we will also begin our work as Global Citizen Scholars as we, first, work collectively and, second, independently to transcribe a collection of medieval manuscripts pertaining to Jewish, Christian, and Muslim life in Burgos.