Final Exam

NAME:

"I pledge my honor that I have neither given nor received assistance and that I have seen no dishonest work."

SIGNED: ___________________________________________

There is only one essay question - Describe the status of women in later medieval society (approximately 1100-1500).

Write your answer to the question in a well-formed essay. The goal here is to demonstrate your ability to synthesize the material we have studied so far, and the best answers will find a way to include most of the subjects we have covered. Omission of important fields of inquiry will result in a lower grade. This includes elite women, religion, health, marriage, family, work, more general questions of patriarchy and rights in society, and women outside the mainstream of that society. Be concise, but make sure you back up your claims with evidence. Avoid quotation unless absolutely necessary.

THE ESSAY MUST BE BETWEEN 1000-1250 WORDS. Failure to meet these goals (too long or too short) will affect your grade. Writing to limits is a valuable skill.

This question is intentionally both vague and difficult. I am aware of this, and will take it into account when grading. That said, synthesis is a difficult task that demonstrates your ability to bring together divergent themes and issues, and is very much the point of the course.

You may take as much time on this assignment as you need to, and use any books and notes that you have. Please attach this page to your essay and sign the Pledge. Part of your pledge includes working independently, and not discussing the essay with your classmates.