The Sword and the Cross: Warfare in the Middle Ages

Description:

“This course will examine the period from the fall of the Roman Empire to the end of the fall of Constantinople, focusing not just on the way men fought, but why. Starting with the Byzantine Greeks’ carrying on the mantle of Rome, we will see how the Islamic invasion of Europe was halted in both West and East. Examining the Vikings and their astounding success, we will look at how this 300-year long conflict took on the dimensions of a religious war. The rise of knighthood and the launching of the First Crusade will provide the context for a thought-provoking look at St. Augustine’s theory of just war, which continues to frame modern thinking. Castles, sieges, and the rise of cannon will lead us to the tumultuous Hundred Years’ War and the epic fall of Constantinople.

This will be taught by Lieutenant Commander (USN, ret.) Adam Wolfe, a veteran of two wars and three branches of the military, a soldier-scholar who has defended the importance of the classical tradition to the modern military. This course will be a great review for those who have had Classics I as well as a superb introduction to ancient Greece for those new to this part of our classical heritage.

Grade Level: 9-12 (ages 14-18)

Required Materials: None