One potential research question I am interested in is as follows: What were the primary modes of thought in the late Middle Ages and how were non-European peoples and places described in literature?

This question is important because it allows us to learn about the worldview of Europeans in the Middle Ages, how they perceived the world around them, and how this perspective may have developed or changed over time. Furthermore, it can help us to identify the preconceived notions that Europeans had about the New World pre-contact. I think that, by looking at European modes of thought, we can better comprehend why they took certain actions and believed certain things about the world beyond Europe. It is also important to know what ideas people chose to write down versus those that they decided not to mention. Ultimately, all of these concepts may allow us to more easily track the European mindset, beliefs, and intentions post-contact.