Goliards were a group of medieval scholars and clergy in Europe, known for their satirical poetry and flamboyant lifestyles. They often challenged the Church’s authority, offering a unique perspective on medieval society. Educating students about the Goliards can help them understand their historical significance and the role they played in shaping European literary traditions.
1. Establish the historical context
Begin by giving students an overview of the time period in which the Goliards lived, primarily during the 12th and 13th centuries. Discuss the societal norms and expectations for clergy members, as well as the prevalent issues within the Church at that time. These could include topics like corruption, clerical celibacy, and wealth inequality.
2. Introduce key figures
Introduce notable Goliard poets such as Hugh Primas of Orleans, Walter of Châtillon, and Peter of Blois. Share samples of their works to give students an understanding of their writing styles and themes. Highlighting different authors can help your students appreciate the variety in Goliardic poetry.
3. Analyze Goliardic poetry
Lead a class discussion or assign individual analysis projects to explore common themes in Goliardic poetry. Some recurring subjects include love affairs, the hypocrisy within the Church hierarchy, and satires on religious practices or rituals. Encourage students to analyze how these poems conveyed humor or criticism while still adhering to formal poetic structures like Latin meters or rhyme schemes.
4. Explore connections to other literary movements
Draw connections between Goliards’ works and later movements such as humanism and Renaissance literature. Touch upon other literary groups that engaged in mockery or satire, like the fabliaux writers in France or Geoffrey Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales. By relating the Goliards to larger trends in European literature, your students can appreciate the lasting impact of their work.
5. Discuss the Carmina Burana
Introduce the Carmina Burana, a medieval manuscript containing poems and songs primarily written by Goliards. Cover topics like its discovery in the 19th century, its content, and how Carl Orff’s musical adaptation brought it to contemporary prominence. Play some excerpts from Orff’s composition to help students connect Goliardic poetry to modern culture.
Conclusion
Teaching students about Goliards can elucidate the rich history of satire and criticism in literature while offering insight into medieval European society. Through their controversial works, these rebellious poets remind us about the power of words to challenge authority and promote change. By taking students on this fascinating journey through Goliardic culture, educators can nurture a deeper appreciation for literary traditions and the role they play in shaping societal values.
