PhD Requirements for Medieval Literature

Dante Aligheri's "The Divine Comedy" is a major work of the Medieval period.

Doctorate programs in Medieval Literature are rare in the U.S. and abroad. If you wish to specialize in Medieval Literature, you may have to enroll in graduate history or literature departments. Some universities offer graduate programs in Medieval Studies where students may opt to focus on literature.

Language Requirements

Depending on the specific program where the doctorate is earned, you will most likely have to demonstrate reading knowledge in one or more medieval languages. The more common languages to learn include Old English or Anglo-Saxon, Latin and Celtic. Other languages that you may have the option to study include Italian, Old French and Arabic. You may have to demonstrate proficiency by earning a certificate in one or more of these languages.

Literature Requirements

Many programs will require you to take courses which concentrate on canonical texts of the Medieval period. You will most likely have to read such texts in their original languages. In addition to reading the texts, you will probably write comprehensive essays demonstrating your understanding of the texts and their place in Medieval culture and history. Texts which may be studied in depth may include "Beowulf," Dante's "The Divine Comedy," and Sir Thomas Malory's "Le Morte d'Arthur."

History

To better understand the literature of the Medieval period, you may be required to take a number of courses in Medieval history, culture and society. Such courses may focus on specific centuries or critical periods of time during the Middle Ages. The courses may also cover Medieval Islamic or Slavic history as well. These courses will most likely be offered by the university's history department.

Philosophy and Religion

Students earning a doctorate in Medieval literature may also be required to take courses which focus on the philosophical and religious culture of the period. You may read the works of major Medieval philosophers such as St. Augustine, Boethius, Duns Scotus and Meister Eckhart. Other courses may treat the impact of religious culture on everyday life. In addition, you may study the aesthetic philosophy of Medieval culture by looking at representative art works.

References

• ASU: PhD Reading List for Medieval Literature
• Virginia: PhD English Requirement