Medieval and early modern studies is an interdisciplinary program that aims to promote the integrated study of the Middle Ages and the Early Modern Period, defined as the interwined historical and cultural periods in Europe between Antiquity and the Modern Age (ca. 500-1700 CE). The influence of these periods is wide-ranging. Studying the Middle Ages and the Early Modern Period helps you to understand the historical developments in science, law, literature, art, architecture, and philosophy that, in addition to helping us understand these fields today, are also worth studying on their own merits. Studying these periods can also shed light on the origins of particular contemporary issues concerning class, religion, gender, colonialism, race, and conflict with and within the Middle East.