Power and Passions: Barcelona through the Lens of History

About

This course explores the history of medieval and early modern Barcelona (13th–18th centuries) from the perspective of its inhabitants, tracing the city from its centers of power to the everyday spaces where life unfolded. Rather than focusing solely on the upper echelons of society, it considers how urban topography, political institutions, and social hierarchies shaped citizens’ daily experiences. Students will consider governance and authority, including the Council of One Hundred and other political structures that shaped the city, and examine how economic life was organized through the city’s guilds—from masters to apprentices—and the roles of women in work and society. The course also studies the movement of essential goods—wheat, meat, fish, and other staples— thus taking a close look at all that kept the city running.Through an analysis of governance, economy, religion, family, leisure, and material culture, students will gain a nuanced understanding of how a city both constrained and inspired its citizens — and how, within those boundaries, they carved out space to be human

Course leader

Cornel Rodenbusch

Target group

Undergraduated students (Sophomore, Junior and Senior)

Fee info