Global Encounters: The Later Crusades, 1209-1500

The loss of Jerusalem saw a shift in Crusading strategy. Going on crusade became a seasonal event, first against the Cathars in France and then with the Knights Hospitaller against pagans in the Baltic.
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  • Start Date: 23 Apr 2026
    End Date: 28 May 2026
    Thu (Evening): 17:30 - 19:30
    In Person
    Location: Keeley Street
    Duration: 6 sessions (over 6 weeks)
    Course Code: HWH202
    Tutors:  Vanessa King
    Full fee £179.00 Senior fee £143.00 Concession £116.00
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SKU
238893
Full fee £179.00 Senior fee £143.00 Concession £116.00

What is the course about?

We look at the so-called Albigensian Crusade in the south of France which marks a shift in papal policy that expanded crusading against non-Christians to include Christian heresy. Although Jerusalem had been lost in 1187, the city still remained the ultimate goal for crusaders. However, henceforth the strategy would be to neutralise Egypt and approach from the south. The fall of the last crusader state, Acre, in 1290 gradually saw an acceptance that the Holy Land would never be regained by the West. Nevertheless, the crusading zeal never faded away entirely. Thereafter, the theatre of war shifted back to Europe. The military orders established to protect the Holy Land were forced to reinvent themselves, and we will look at the activities of the Knights Hospitaller in the Baltic. Thereafter, we see the promotion of crusades against the rise of the Ottomans particularly fostered by the Venetians who had the most to lose economically.

What will we cover?

As Above.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

• Explain the causes and consequences of the Albigensian Crusade against the Cathars
• Critique the activities of St Louis as revealed in the eye-witness account by Jean de Joinville
• Describe the activities of the Knights Hospitaller in the Baltic
• Evaluate the reasons for the Fall of Constantinople
• Debate upon how the rise of the Ottomans impacted on crusading ideology.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

No prior knowledge is necessary. However, a good standard of English is essential as is a willingness to engage constructively in any class debates/discussions.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

There will be a PowerPoint presentation with a handout of contemporary sources for discussion. You will be encouraged to share your thoughts and ideas in a relaxed and friendly environment. Occasionally there will be homework reading with an accompanying worksheet of questions. This is not obligatory, but it will enhance your understanding and enjoyment of the course.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

There are no other expenses other than note-taking materials.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Please see our global history section for other related courses.

Vanessa King
We’re sorry. We don’t have a bio ready for the tutor of this class at the moment, but we’re working on it! Watch this space.

Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.