The Cathars of Languedoc were a fascinating group of medieval religious dissidents.
A study of them provides an interesting way of studying medieval religion and society in either Year 7 (when looking at Medieval Religion / The Crusades) or Year 8 (as a prelude to the the European Reformation)
Complete Scheme of Work and Resources
1. Introduction: The Court of Raymond of Toulouse
Designed to give students a romantic impression of what Medieval Languedoc was like.
[worksheet]
2. Why did the Pope launch the Albigensian Crusade? (a) Religious Reasons
Students compare Cathar viewpoints to those of Catholics, and form their own judgement as to which they have most sympathy with.
[worksheet]
4. Early Events of the Crusade: The Campaigns of Simon de Montfort
A decision-making exercise: Would you have taken the same decisions as de Montfort?
[worksheet] [teacher answer sheet]
7. [Siege Stone - Flash Animation]
Designed to accompany the above lesson.
[interactive exercise]
8. The Siege of Montsegur: Interactive Running Dictation Exercise
Students watch the events unfold through a series of "news feeds" and should then be asked to write a biased newspaper report about the event from either a Catholic or a Cathar perspective.
[interactive exercise]
9. Build Your Own Castle!
If students have not already played this game in Year 7, now would be an ideal
time to do so!
[interactive exercise]
The Cathars of Languedoc were a fascinating group of medieval religious dissidents. 
Complete Scheme of Work and Resources
