This course develops perspectives on the concept of Europe from the Reformation to the 20th century. It considers political, social and cultural forces at work in Europe with respect to elements of unity and diversity, tradition and innovation.

Among the core themes are the idea of European unity, the shifting boundaries of European culture and identity, the development of political, social and economic theory, the impact of encounters with cultures outside of Europe, the political and industrial revolutions of the late eighteenth and nineteenth centuries and the development of states, nations and empires.

The course provides access to perspectives on modern Europe, which are critical of prevailing orthodoxies and offers explanations and interpretations of social, political and cultural forces at work in Europe. It also introduces students to key ideas and concepts essential for an understanding of History, International Relations and Contemporary Europe.

• identify and analyse the major events, themes, and concepts in European history from the fifteenth century to the beginning of the twentieth century;
• discuss key concepts in international relations and situate them within their historical contexts;
• assess the political, social, economic and cultural legacies of the topics examined for both Europe and the wider world;
• develop their research and writing skills;
• formulate an argument through the evaluation and presentation of evidence.

500 word initial assessment (10%), 2000 word research essay (45%), 1500 word final essay (35%), and tutorial participation (10%).

EURO1002 Foundations of Modern Europe.

Merry E. Wiesner-Hanks, Early Modern Europe, 1450-1789 (Cambridge University Press, 2006)

William Simpson and Martin Jones, Europe 1783-1914, Second Edition (Routledge, 2009)