Literature Based Movies for Medieval History or Lit Class: Life in the Middle Ages: 1100-1500

Historians and scholars differ somewhat on what time period specifically constitutes the 'middle ages' or medieval times. There isn't even a consistent spelling for 'medieval' which means 'middle'. Medieval history generally refers to European history, but is often extended to include Asia, particularly in reference to Marco Polo's visit and controversial writings on the Far East and the fabled empire of Kublai Khan. So if even professional don't concur, amateur historians may struggle to communicate this fascinating, complicated and somewhat confusing time period.

Literature will always be a key component for any history class, particularly the literature of the day. Happily there are also some literature based films to help students conceptualize the middle ages. Unfortunately there are not as many really compelling medieval are book based films as I could wish. I've listed some of the better movies, grouped under the major issues or themes of the middle ages.

Cadfael The very best book and movie connection to show a good cross-section of life in medieval England is the late Dame Edith Pargenter (writing as Ellis Peters) novels. These chronicle the Benedictine monk, herbalist and sleuth Brother Cadfael. Peters is a great historian as well as a resident of Shrewsbury where she has researched the 900 year old Abbey of St. Peter and St. Paul. Her characters have basis in real people. The movies made for television are an hour in length and well cast, with Sir Derek Jacobi as Cadfael. Your students will be highly engaged. The Cadfael series explores the Crusades, herbalism, social issues, the political climate, religious life and economic structure of the early middle ages (1139- 1160).

Timeline The Black Death, (ad 1348-1350) originated in China and came to Europe on the rats on boats from the East. Also called The Bubonic plague, this disease wiped out 1/3 to 1/2 of entire populations in Europe. Sanitation was unheard of, health care was practically non-existent. The best book I have found on the subject is Connie Willis's Domesday Book, which chronicles a group of time traveling scientists who somehow bring a pandemic back to modern London with them. They also experience the plague in Europe, when they arrive at the wrong date. No movie has been made from this book, but Michael Crichton's Timelineis a fair substitute. The book far surpasses the movie, but it still gives students some idea of medieval life.

Redwall Although this is a cartoon series featuring animals, the Redwall series by Brian Jacques (pronounced Jakes) is full of historical information and well researched. Redwall contains all the best elements of literature and follows the time-honored tradition of animal based novels of social importance (The Rats of NIMH, Watership Down, Animal Farm).

The Navigator: A Medieval Odyssey although not book based as such, this story from the UK dramatizes a young boy in the 14th century whose dreams and visions lead he and his village to dig to the other side of the world. He emerges in 20th century England. Don't let the smarmy title fool you; this film has an impressive cast list and an involved plot.

A Knight's Tale, Canterbury Tales (Geoffrey Chaucer) This movie is not based directly on Chaucer, but does include his character in the story. It's not a great film, but Heath Ledger does have some fluidity and versatility in historical roles.

These films should help you find some good resources for your medieval studies. Look for specific articles on Arthurian Legend and medieval church and political history.