Boston University offers ‘Medieval Trans Studies’ course highlighting ‘trans saints,’ ‘genderfluid angels’

The Boston University's College of Arts and Sciences will teach the "Medieval Trans Studies" course in the upcoming semester, as first reported by Campus Reform. During the course, graduate level students will learn about “the deep histories of transgender embodiment" using text sources from the Middle Ages.

“Expect to read about alchemical hermaphrodites, genderfluid angels, Ethiopian eunuchs, trans saints, sex workers, and genderqueer monks,” the course description said. “We will consider together how these medieval texts speak to the historical, theoretical, and political concerns that animate contemporary trans studies."

"Works will be read in translation or in student-friendly editions; no previous experience with medieval literature or trans studies required," the description adds.

The course is set to be instructed by Assistant Professor Micah Goodrich, who has written a book manuscript called, “Chronic Bodies: Transforming Nature in Medieval Literature." In addition to this, Goodrich has explored "how the theory and process of medieval alchemy genders non-human objects" in a paper, titled, "Trans Animacies and Premodern Alchemies."

Goodrich has taught courses from "Introduction to Queer Studies" to "Disability Voices: Medieval to Modern" while at BU. The professor profile for Goodrich states, "Micah teaches courses on a variety of medieval genres – including poetry, scientific and medical texts, and histories – literary theory and criticism, and classes on trans and queer studies."