The first century of crusading: defeat in victory

We examine the beliefs of crusaders, their achievements and the outcomes of their campaigns. We will use photographs and primary sources including letters, documents, literature, architecture and archaeology and will develop historical skills in examining them.

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Key course information

Dates
11/01/12 - 21/03/12

Day(s)
Wed

Duration
11 weeks

Time
15:00 - 16:30

Fees
Full fee: £83
Senior fee: £47
Concession: £22

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

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Course code
HH008

Availability
This course has finished

This course has finished

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Still got questions?
humanities@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 7492 2652

Course outline

What is the course about?

When Pope Urban II preached the liberation of Jerusalem in 1095, he set in motion a dynamic movement which changed the political and social fabric of both Europe and the Middle East. Inspired crusaders made tortuous journeys to fight Muslims, defend European settlements in the East, and protect pilgrims.

What topics will we cover?

The first session reviews the way in which crusaders captured Jerusalem in 1099. Later sessions cover further conquests and the settlement of the Kingdom of Jerusalem; the nature of crusading; the impact of the Crusades on the Middle East and Europeans left at home; the Second Crusade; political turmoil; castles and crusading warfare; art and culture in the Latin East, the loss of the Kingdom and the Third Crusade.

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

describe important aspects of 12th century crusading history, culture and society;
appreciate the military and cultural achievements of the crusaders;
identify some of the ways in which scholars have interpreted the Crusades;
study original sources to research the 12th Crusades with an enhanced awareness of how historians reach their conclusions.

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

No previous knowledge is required, although there will be some recommended reading. Books should be available from a library, although you might wish to buy a particular text if you wish to explore a topic further.

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

Most sessions involve the tutor leading in with a prepared talk or lecture. This is usually illustrated with slides. There is ample opportunity for discussion of the issues or problems raised. As the course progresses learners are encouraged to take an increasing part in the learning process, especially with regard to asking questions and discussing aspects of the topics covered.

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

You may well wish to buy a recommended book or two. Some visits are recommended, which may involve travel and entrance fees, although these are not part of the course itself.

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?

Other courses in the 'Medieval and early modern' section.

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.