HIST6223 The French Revolution and Napoleonic Europe
| Offered By | School of Social Sciences |
|---|---|
| Academic Career | Graduate Coursework |
| Course Subject | History |
| Offered in | Second Semester, 2010 |
| Unit Value | 6 units |
| Course Description |
This course provides an introduction to the study of revolutionary France and the rule of Napoleon Bonaparte. The eighteenth and nineteenth centuries brought about radical change in Europe and gave birth to many of the ideas, conflicts, and movements that shaped the modern era. Knowledge of the French Revolution and of the reign of Napoleon Bonaparte, key episodes in this period of upheaval, is essential for understanding the development of the modern world and the ideas that inform state and society today. The course charts the origins, development and significance of the French Revolution and examines its culmination in the rise and fall of Napoleon Bonaparte. It considers the longer term repercussions of this period for France, Europe and the wider world and investigates the fierce historiographical debates that reflect the divisive nature of the events of this time. In seminars, participants will have the opportunity to explore in-depth such topics as the fall of the monarchy, church and state, slavery, women's rights, and Napoleon's impact upon Europe. The course will also introduce participants to a fascinating range of primary sources, including letters, political speeches, newspapers, petitions, and paintings, and provide them with experience in analysing and interpreting the language and concepts of the period. No knowledge of French is required for this course. All primary documents to be examined in class will be provided in English translation and all recommended reading is available in English. Students with skills in French may however wish to make use of French resources available online and the library |
| Learning Outcomes | On completing The French Revolution and Napoleonic Europe, students will have a sound understanding of revolutionary and Napoleonic France. They will be able to describe and discuss the origins, course and consequences of the Revolution in France, examine and analyse the ideas and concepts of the period, and evaluate the wider repercussions of the Revolution and Napoleonic rule for France, Europe and the wider world. More broadly, they will be able to place some of the key events, conflicts, movements, and ideas of modern European history within their historical contexts. At a practical level, students will strengthen their oral and written communication skills and build upon their research skills. Through extensive work on primary material, they will gain experience in analysing and interpreting material from another period. The research essay will help students to hone their research skills and will strengthen their ability to present information and formulate an argument in written form. The seminar presentation will further develop their ability to design and give oral presentations. |
| Indicative Assessment |
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| Workload | Twenty-six one-hour lectures, thirteen one-hour tutorials. Lectures will be recorded and will be available online, as will weekly Powerpoint presentations. |
| Course Classification(s) | TransitionalTransitional courses are designed for students from a broad range of backgrounds and learning achievements, which provide for the acquisition of generic skills; or an informed understanding of contemporary issues; or fundamental knowledge for transition to Advanced or Specialist courses. |
| Recommended Courses |
EURO1004 - Europe in the Modern Era: Foundations of International Relations |
| Preliminary Reading |
Colin Jones, The Great Nation: France from Louis XV to Napoleon (New York: Columbia University Press, 2003). William Doyle, The Origins of the French Revolution, Third edition (Oxford: OUP, 1999). |
| Academic Contact | Dr Betros |
The information published on the Study at ANU 2009 website applies to the 2009 academic year only. All information provided on this website replaces the information contained in the Study at ANU 2008 website.
