About Us

Medieval and Early Modern Studies (MEMS) at UF is an interdisciplinary forum for the study of medieval and early modern European culture and its influences on the modern world. This approach addresses the distinctive forms of cultural organization in the Middle Ages and Early Modern periods; the study necessarily crosses departmental boundaries.

The IDS major in MEMS enables students to obtain knowledge about the values, interests, world views, and technologies of medieval and early modern communities (e.g., monastic, chivalric, peasant, early urban), and to familiarize themselves with some of the world's greatest epic and lyric poetry, drama, and romances. Students are encouraged to draw on their knowledge for historical perspectives that can contribute to current discussions on such issues as ethnicity and nationality, colonialism, technologies and their effects, constructions of gender and sexuality, the characteristics of historical and fictional narratives, and so on. MEMS recommends itself to students who are seeking a major that involves textual analysis, critical thinking, and creativity, and who want to take an active role in the shaping of their curriculum. Since it provides a well-rounded liberal arts education rather than specialized training, the IDS major in MEMS is excellent pre-professional preparation for a wide range of careers, including law, medicine, library science, journalism, government service, and teaching.

The faculty of MEMS consists of award-winning teachers and internationally recognized scholars. MEMS at UF sponsors an annual Spring symposium, Carnival!, and benefits from its association with Exemplaria: A Journal of Theory in Medieval and Renaissance Studies.

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Center for Medieval and Early Modern Studies

Will Hasty, 263 Dauer Hall, 273-3780
Email: hasty@ufl.edu

Mary Watt, 301 Pugh Hall, 392-2422
Email: marywatt@ufl.edu