History can be fascinating and is certainly relevant to contemporary society, as Simon Schama has eloquently demonstrated for English history. This is equally true for Asian societies. However, in this case the historian usually has to work harder in order to establish a context, and to deal with sources which may be inaccessible and may give rise to methodological problems not addressed by conventional, Europe-centric theories of history writing. On the other hand, there is more scope for doing new and important work, and for making meaningful contributions both to Asian and to global history and historiography.

In strategic terms, it is important for Australians to understand the historical legacy of this diverse region and the way in which historical developments are still being worked out in the present. Australia itself has a short history not characterized by major ethnic or cultural diversity so that it requires some effort of the imagination to deal with societies with very long and diverse histories. On the other hand, making this effort can be exciting and rewarding. The ANU has Australia?s largest concentration of historians working on Asia and this course will draw on their work to illustrate the methodological challenges encountered, the results achieved, and the prospects for the future of this field.

Assessment to be based on a research based written requirement totalling 6000 words. Written requirement based on: Essay and Seminar paper. Additional assessment will be derived from Seminar participation and examination performance.

Consent of Program Academic Advisor or delegate.