This course will explore a sampling of medieval poems about a variety of topics. We will read mostly short lyric poems, but one class will be dedicated to a longer chivalric romance. Our class sessions will be based in discussion about the poems, many of which are anonymously written. We will read the poems in modern English, with the original Middle English on hand.

Readings will be pre-circulated each session. No previous experience with Middle English or poetry is required.

Instructor Margo Kolenda- Mason is a PhD Candidate in English at UM, where she studies medieval and renaissance literature.

The study group will meet Fridays from May 7 through June 11. Preregistration is required via the OLLI website or phone. A link to access the study group will be e-mailed to you approximately one week prior to the first session.