Module: HIS5118-20 History Matters? The public, politics and the past

Level: 5

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor:

Module Tutor Contact Details:

1. Brief description and aims of module:

History is a lens through which we view the present as much as we do the past. We compare current events to historical ones, and seek to draw lessons from them. We take comfort in nostalgia and in fictitious versions of the past – the past as we would like it to be – and use history to create signs and symbols that define who ‘we’ are now. Politicians appeal to the past to justify present actions, while others seek to use it to inform policy decisions. In some parts of the world, the destruction of heritage sites is an act of war, while across continents statues are torn down while new historical symbols are created in their place. What drives this interest in, enthusiasm for, and anger about the past, and how is this expressed or exploited? Why does history matter so much, in a world apparently so focused on the present?

This module offers an opportunity for us to explore historical preoccupations, preferences, the public impact of history and the ways in which the past is valued as refuge, guide or challenge. It will take us into the museum and the novel, from the protest movement to propaganda, from our personal perspectives to those of policy makers and politicians.

2. Outline syllabus

The syllabus has been designed to give everyone a broad foundation from which to explore the themes of most relevance to them, in line with your historical interests, your career aspirations, or those areas in which you most want to apply your historical knowledge and understanding. We will cover, inter alia:

Public History: scope, principles, approaches

The consumption of the past: purpose, places, presentation

Contexts and content: how attitudes towards the past change over time and place

Where public history happens: museums, galleries, historical sites, town squares, meeting rooms, universities; history as performance and production

The politics of history and heritage

History as a basis for public policy

History and social justice: whose history, and what’s missing?

History changes the world?

3. Teaching and learning activities

This module is taught through a series of short provocations and longer workshops, culminating in the planning and preparation of your portfolio.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Coursework

• Description: Project proposal and rationale (1500 words or equivalent)

• % Weighting: 20%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Coursework

• Description: Public History Portfolio (3500 words or equivalent)

• % Weighting: 80%