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The Medieval and Renaissance Studies (MARS) undergraduate program, housed within the Medieval and Renaissance Center (MARC), examines European history alongside Atlantic and Mediterranean civilizations and their worldwide influences—spanning from Timbuktu to India to Mongolia—from the fall of Rome through approximately 1700. Distinct from modern societies, this transformative era challenges us to explore its rich diversity (cultural, linguistic, religious, philosophical, artistic) while confronting foundational issues that still resonate today, including concepts of human rights (personal liberty, equity, societal and ecological ethics) alongside enduring oppressive systems (racial discrimination, imperial domination, environmental degradation). Engaging with medieval and Renaissance scholarship thus provides crucial insights for understanding both historical complexities and contemporary challenges.
MARS connects students with NYU's distinguished humanities professors, New York's exceptional libraries and cultural institutions, and the city's frequent performances of period music and theater. The program enhances College of Arts and Science study abroad opportunities while offering personalized academic planning with faculty advisors. Students benefit from tailored guidance within this premier academic hub, nestled in a world-class university and dynamic urban environment.