The purpose of this course is to provide students with an opportunity to gain an in-depth knowledge of aspects of early medieval European history (c. 450AD-c.1100 AD), to gain practice in writing book reviews, in discussing books, and finally in writing historiographical essays. For the first, and longer part of the course, each student will read a monograph of the student's choice, write a book review, and share this book review with the class. For each class session during the first, and longer, part of the semester students will read the reviews of fellow students, and class discussion will focus on the selected book reviews completed for that week. Each student presenting that week will give a five-minute presentation, and the other students will come with prepared questions about the books of each of the other students in the class. During the second, and shorter, part of the semester students will work on writing a historiographical essay, the topic of which they have chosen in consultation with Professor Bachrach, who will meet individually with students to discuss the historiographical essays.

From Homespun to Fast Fashion: A Global History of Textiles

Professor Kimberly Alexander

Welcome to History 690/890, a seminar course that introduces you to the craft of history through the study of global textiles.

The course teaches you how historians think and pose questions as well as how they choose, weigh, and interpret evidence in their efforts to understand and write about the past. Focusing initially on four fibers--silk, wool, linen, and cotton—we will examine how people have clothed themselves across time and place.

We will explore creation and consumption of textiles through the histories of natural and synthetic fibers and dyes; processes such as weaving, knitting, block and screen printing; mass marketing and merchandising, and the importance of sustainability and eco-conscious production models.

You will read, discuss, and write on one text and numerous journal and online articles. In each case, you will analyze how historians constructed their arguments and assessing whether or not you think they successfully made their cases. By the end of this class, you will have developed a set of analytical skills that are essential to historians but can be applied beyond the walls of the university in a range of occupations that require critical thinking, writing, and speaking.