Overview

The module will introduce you to current debates and important areas of research in historical discipline. These will include themes such as cultural history, gender, class, urban history, national identity and secularisation. It will look at how historians have taken a variety of methodological approaches and intellectual influences. Individual members of staff will usually focus on their particular period or topic of expertise, using it as a case-study; however, in the list of reading you will have a broader selection of literature that covers earlier and modern periods.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -C/50%: To pass students must show a basic competence based on the above criteria. They will demonstrate an appropriate depth of knowledge in at least parts of the relevant evidence; they will make at least partially successful attempts to analyse the material showing some knowledge of current debates and interpretations; they will present their written work in a way which demonstrates a serious attempt to structure and present it clearly and correctly. -good -B/60%: Students will show a solid level of achievement in all the criteria in the above paragraph. -excellent -A/70%: To gain a distinction, students will, in addition, demonstrate originality in their interpretation of the evidence.

Learning Outcomes

• A broad knowledge of interpretations and key debates relevant to the study of History, and an ability to place these in their historiographical context.

• A close familiarity with the theoretical frameworks that are particularly relevant to the student¿s chosen course of study and research interests.

• Present a clearly structured argument in the form of a 4500 word essay, on an aspect of the approach and interpretation of history that critically engages with current debates.

• Recognize that representations of the past can be produced using a range of different methodologies, philosophical and theoretical approaches.