Michelle Herder

Michele Herder is a Professor of History in the Department of History. She specializes in medieval European history, focusing on women and religion in late medieval Spain. Her teaching spans courses from the early Middle Ages to the 17th century, emphasizing themes like religion, violence, and societal power dynamics. She integrates simulations into her pedagogy to explore historical phenomena.

Education:

• Ph.D. in History, Yale University, 2003
• M.Phil., Yale University
• B.A., Carleton College, 1997 (history major, concentration in medieval studies)

Research Interests: Her work examines monastic life, gender dynamics, and the intersection of religious practices with societal structures. Key topics include women’s roles in nunneries, gift-giving practices, and the administration of medieval monastic institutions.

Publications & Presentations: Her research has been presented at major conferences, such as the International Medieval Congress (Kalamazoo) and the Berkshire Conference on the History of Women. Themes include enclosure in monastic communities, conflicts within nunneries, and bishops’ supervision of religious institutions.

Teaching & Advising: No specific advising or grant information is provided. Courses taught include Europe 800-1300, Women in Medieval Europe, and Persecution, Tolerance, and Violence in Premodern Europe.