Medieval literature draws on a diverse range of performative cultural practices and ideas including affective meditation, miracles, speech, law, sacramentality, dance, and banqueting. At the same time, medieval literature was itself often performed. This course will consider the relationship between performative practices and medieval textual forms. Readings will include Nicholas Love’s Meditations on the Life of Christ, the Harley Lyrics, selections from the dramatic and poetic works of John Lydgate and medieval drama (“Croxton Play of the Sacrament,” “Mankind,” and selections from York Plays) as well as selections from primary sources (such as medieval conduct books and recipe books) and the work of modern critics and theorists (such as Ahmed, de Certeau, Sedgwick).