-
Course begins October 10, 2026
-
Live sessions with the instructor each week from 4:00 to 5:30pm Eastern U.S. time
-
All sessions are recorded and available to view for up to 2 weeks after the last live session
Session 1
Introduction to Demonic Possessions
We begin with a historical background of demonic possessions dating back to Ancient Greece, as well as the symptoms of demonic possession. This session will also explain the cultural developments introduced by Christianity in understanding demonic possessions through references to the New Testament and the Cult of Saints.
Session 2
Evil Spirits and the Devil
This session explores how medieval people understood evil and the Devil’s presence in the word in relation to demonic possessions. We will also explore themes of community cohesion, disruption, and concerns about the afterlife through demonology.
Session 3
The Demoniac
This session addresses the individuals who were possessed, those who were more likely than others to be possessed, and their experiences under demonic possession. We also explore themes of mental illness and gender.
Session 4
The Exorcist
Learn about the development of “exorcisms” as a cure or mode of healing for demoniacs. The focus of this session is on the power structures embedded in exorcisms reinforced by the healer and, in some cases, challenged by the demoniac and community.
Session 5
Healing and Protective Objects, Rites, and Sites
The fifth session focuses on objects and strategies that medieval people considered effective in expelling evil spirits. Objects including crucifixes, rosaries, holy water, and relics will be discussed, as well as specific prayers and where they were recited as part of healing the demoniac.
Session 6
Possessions and Exorcisms in TV Series and Cinema
The final session takes the themes from the previous five sessions to evaluate the representation of medieval practices in TV series and cinema.
Meet Your Instructor
Mary Anne Gonzales
Mary Anne Gonzales is an independent scholar whose research interests focus on the economic history of care, the urban history of medieval women and devotion, and the history of emotions and urban spaces. Her publications focus on charity and care networks as they intersected with commerce in urban communities from the 13th to the 15th century. Geographically, her research has focused on the town of Douai and its beguines—lay, charitable women who pursued spiritual perfection and actively participated in commercial life. She has taught university courses in Medieval History, Western Civilization, and academic learning.