This course will survey major developments in western Europe from roughly 400 CE to 1300 CE.  It will use primary and secondary sources to explore the growth of a distinctly European civilization upon its Judaeo-Christian, classical and Germanic roots, and will trace the expression of this civilization through its political, religious and educational institutions; its former religious thought and vernacular literature; its art, architecture and music; and its interactions with different cultures both within and beyond its borders. Specific topics covered will include the Germanic invasions, monasticism, the conversion of Europe, the growth of the manorial and feudal systems, scholastic thought in the universities, heresy and the crusades, the growth of representative government and others. Also offered as HIS-385.