Why Study the Middle Ages?

Why Study the Middle Ages? is an inspired and inspiring read. It exudes an infectious kind of enthusiasm about how medievalists’ work can be enhanced by, and can enhance, diversity studies and disability studies, and thus it is bound to bring about new and different audiences for the study of medieval culture. It is well balanced when it comes to appreciating presentist and pastist perspectives, and it understands that faith and religion need to remain part of a convincing and responsible future medieval studies. Finally, it practices what it preaches about the need for a globally inclusive medieval studies by adducing global medieval and postmedieval sources and research throughout. Therefore, I recommend it warmly as a vademecum to colleagues who teach introductory courses as well as to all those looking for practical ideas about how to add diversity and disability modules to their courses.

~Richard Utz, Perspicuitas: ​Internet-Periodicum für mediävistische Sprach-, Literatur- und Kulturwissenschaft (2023)