This is a module framework. It can be viewed online or downloaded as a zip file.

As taught Autumn Semester 2010.

Module Code: V11213

Suitable for study at: Undergraduate level 1

Credits:20

This module introduces students to major issues in the social, political and cultural history of Europe in the Early Modern period by analysing demographic, religious, social and cultural changes that took place between c.1500 and 1789. Students will examine the tensions produced by warfare, religious conflict, the changing relationships between rulers, subjects and political elites, trends in socio-economic development and the discovery of the ‘New World’.

This crucially important period witnessed Europe split by the religious differences of the Reformation, shaken by local rebellions and uprisings, transformed by the discovery of the ‘New World’, and affected by destructive and costly wars that spread across the continent. How did these forces of change interact in the period and what did this mean for the nascent European nation-states and the people of Europe? These issues will be addressed thematically, through comparing the experience of different countries. Topics for more detailed study include urbanisation, monarchies and princely courts, social issues such as poverty, household and family, as well as consumerism, literacy and print culture, the development of trade, protest, toleration and persecution, and the ‘military revolution’. Throughout, students will be encouraged to deal critically with broader historiographical debates on these issues.

School of History:

Our teaching and learning methods, at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, are strongly focused on 'active learning'. We emphasise that effective learning in History comes especially from one's own enquiries, critical thinking, and reflection.

You will therefore be encouraged to become independent learners and thinkers, whilst being guided by expert tutors. Active participation and involvement in class discussion and group activities are therefore given priority as a means of developing skills required for learning, researching and employment.

Our academic staff are central to our success and create our lively and inclusive research culture. All of them are nationally or internationally recognized scholars in their fields.