This course provides an introduction to British history up to 1900, examining key themes and developments through different ages. Emphasis is placed on the formation of the United Kingdom and the development of national identity, religious and social change, and the global expansion of the British Empire. You will be encouraged to think critically about key concepts such as British civilisation and national history. Alongside the study of British history, the course considers how particular historical moments are remembered or forgotten in Britain today.
Indicative topics:
The British Isles before Great Britain
The formation of the United Kingdom
Monarchy, parliament, and rights
Religious change and conflict
The British Empire: The Atlantic
The British Empire: India
The Enlightenment
The Industrial Revolution
Social change
Science and progress
The British World in 1900
Exam preparation
Objectives
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
• Understand key events and processes in the history of the British Isles before 1900
• Recognise key institutions in the UK and explain their development
• Question key concepts like “civilisation” and “British” history
• Write short written responses in English on the topics studied in class
A 2-hour weekly lecture. 12 weeks of teaching in total, with the final week dedicated to exam preparation. Interaction and discussion are encouraged.
Assessment and Final Grade
A 2-hour written exam during the exam period at the end of the semester. Students write short responses to 3 questions, from a choice of about 11.
Course Requirements
Material to help prepare each lecture is made available on the learning platform. Students are expected to spend 1-2 hours per week preparing for the lecture.
Libraries
Practical information
