Module: HIS5121-20 People, Politics and Belief in Early Modern Britain, c. 1485-1837

Level: 5

Credit Value: 20

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1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module introduces you to the political, cultural and social worlds of Tudor, Stuart and Georgian Britain, a period which saw the transformation of Britain from a largely rural, socially static, politically fragile nation to a globally connected superpower. The module will approach the period thematically, exploring change in a range of contexts drawing on issues of politics, class, culture, gender, religion and other forms of belief, demographic growth, movement and dislocation; social reform changing attitudes to private and public lives.

2. Outline syllabus

• The relationship between England, Wales and Scotland and the creation of Britain

• Monarchy, the aristocracy, court politics and parliament

• Political thought

• Popular rebellion and protest

• Warfare and foreign policy

• Economic growth and change

• Social relations and social change

• The reformation and religious conflict

• Crime and Punishment

• Witchcraft and ‘magical’ beliefs

• Social reform

• Gender relations

• Industrialisation and consumption

3. Teaching and learning activities

Lectures, Seminars, set reading / other preparation, related trips/visits

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Coursework

• Description: Podcast (2500 words equivalent)

• % Weighting: 50%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Coursework

• Description: Essay (2500 words)

• % Weighting: 50%