19th century history: Romanticism and politics

Examine the tumultuous events of the first half of the nineteenth century in Europe, from Napoleon to the revolutions of 1848. Explore Romantic culture and analyse Romanticism and Utopianism in the politics of the time.

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Key course information

Dates
23/09/11 - 09/12/11

Day(s)
Fri

Duration
12 weeks

Time
10:00 - 12:00

Fees ?
Full fee: £120
Senior fee: £68
Concession: £32

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

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Course code
HH009

Availability
This course has finished

This course has finished


Course outline

What is the course about?

Why was there no revolution in Britain in 1848? Why were there revolutions in so many other European countries in 1848? What did they achieve? What did they hope to achieve? What role did artists and writers play in shaping the politics and culture of the time? Were the Romantics hopeless dreamers or did they have a serious impact on shaping modern politics? We will examine all these topics and explore the first half of the century that saw the birth of the modern world.

What topics will we cover?

The emergence of modern Right- and left-wing movements.
The art and literature of the Romantics
The cult of the individual
The rise of the modern state.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

List key events
Discuss the main themes and ambitions of the Romantic movement
Identify main political movements in Europe in the 19th Century
Analyse Primary Source materials.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This is an `introductory` course and does not assume any previous study or reading although you will need a good grasp of English to keep up with the course. You will gain more from the course, in terms of enjoyment and learning, if you are able and willing to do some supplementary reading. As with most of our history and current affairs courses, curiosity, an open mind and a willingness to listen to and think about views with which you do not always agree are more important than specific levels of skills.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

Lecture presentation, slideshow, tutor-guided analysis of nineteenth century texts and artworks, interactive group discussion, some film/documentary clips, possible museum or gallery visit.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

There are no necessary costs although further reading will be suggested. In particular, it is suggested that students might like to read Stendhal’s The Red and the Black before the very last session of the course.

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

No.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

HH014 19th century history:modernism and the changing world.

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2652

humanities@citylit.ac.uk

Advice times:

During term-time Monday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30

Non term-time Monday 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30.

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.

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Contact us

Humanities

Tel: 020 7492 2652

humanities@citylit.ac.uk

Advice times:

During term-time Monday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30

Non term-time Monday 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30.

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.

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