Analyzes the rise of realism in the 13th and 14th century Italian literature and parallel manifestations in the visual arts. Focuses on Boccaccio's Decameron and contemporary realistic prose and poetry with emphasis on gender issues and medieval cultural diversity. Taught in English. Prereq., junior standing or instructor consent. Same as HUMN 4150. Approved for arts and sciences core curriculum: literature and the arts or human diversity.