Fox Cities News

Lawrence University professors Madera Allan, Sara Gross Ceballos, and Danielle Joyner have embarked on a two-year interdisciplinary journey centered around medieval Spain. The trio's shared interest in 13th-century Spain has led them on an intellectual adventure spanning art, music, and literature.

Their journey began with the creation of an interdisciplinary course in 2022, focusing on the Cantigas de Santa Maria, which contain songs and miniatures celebrating miracles attributed to the Virgin Mary. Joyner described the manuscripts as records of "truly beautiful, and sometimes very weird, imagery depicting their stories." The course led to a D-Term trip to Toledo, Spain, where the cultural dynamics of 13th-century Spain came alive for the students.

Reflecting on their collaborative teaching experience, Ceballos expressed, "Collaborating with Danielle and Madera was amazing. We learned so much from one another." Joyner added, "The class was so much fun. The students liked it, we liked it."

The professors continued to explore the intersections of their respective fields through the lens of medieval Spain. Allan praised her colleagues, saying, "They bring wisdom and intellectual enthusiasm to everything they do."

Taking their course to Spain during D-Term, the group visited Madrid, Toledo, Córdoba, and Granada. A highlight of the trip was a private musical performance by scholar Antoni Rossell, which left Ceballos impressed by his unique approach to medieval music.

Hannah Frank, a senior history major, described the D-Term trip as a "unique and special opportunity" for understanding the historical significance of the places visited. The presence of Lawrence alumni Robert ’79 and Janet Stevens ’82 enriched the experience and sparked discussions about a wider alumni trip.

With 14 alumni and family members joining them on a spring break trip, Allan, Ceballos, and Joyner continue to share their passion for medieval Spain with the Lawrence University community. Joyner emphasized the importance of the humanities and fine arts in instilling a joy in lifelong learning.

The professors' academic adventure serves as a testament to the power of shared knowledge and intersecting interests in academia, demonstrating the enriching experiences that can arise from interdisciplinary collaboration.