The course aims to follow the common idea and depiction of the ruler in narrative sources of the Middle Ages with focus on geographical region of the Latin West. Through work with primary sources, it will introduce the topic and set it in its historical context. In its later stages, the course will cover the subject of languages and their use in medieval literature. As such, lectures will be combined with seminary approach. Knowledge of Latin is not required, however recommended. Schedule of Lectures:
1. Introduction
2. Hagiography and saintly rulers
3. Ruler’s in the national chroniclers
4. The image of Conqueror
5. The Lion in the Winter
6. The Rulers in the Angevin Period
7. Special Guest
8. Two images of “bad” and “good” king – Otokar of Bohemia and Rudolf I. of Habsburg
9. The last Kings of Přemyslids Dynasty
10. Women Ruler in medieval narrative sources
11. Luxembourger Dynasty in Narrative Sources
12. Burgundian Rulers – Autumn of Middle Ages
13. Test