It will come as a surprise to exactly zero regular readers that I have been contemplating the concept of obscenity lately. What may come as a surprise to you, however, is exactly why I have been thinking about that. And friends, it’s not because medieval people are being prudes – it’s because we are, now. … Continue reading "On obscenity and modernity"

As a special treat for you all we are having class OUTSIDE for a little tour of Bologna’s medieval canals. On the way we’ll learn to spot where medieval city walls, or even bridges, used to be in modern cities; we’ll consider the every day elements of city life like laundry, bathing, and watering animals; … Continue reading "Bologna’s medieval canals"

Pretend you are me – the nicest, cutest, sweetest person who deserves a relaxing little Sunday, where she just goofs and maybe reads a ghost book ever. Nice right? Well, I also will have to imagine it as well because unfortunately my Sunday was irrevocably disfigured by the rantings of an idiot on the internet, … Continue reading "On women’s anatomy and the power of paying attention"