From the Holy Roman Empire to the unification of Germany (the Middle Ages to 1871)
This course has now started
Course Code: HEH24
Duration: 10 sessions (over 10 weeks)
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What is the course about?
We will cover the major political developments from the emergence of the Holy Roman Empire in the tenth century and its fragmentation during the later Middle Ages to the struggle between Austria and Prussia since the eighteenth century and the triumph of the national movement in the nineteenth. Key features of German social and economic, religious division and cultural life will also be addressed.
What will we cover?
Imperial governance and princely power; the changing role of the church, of cities, guilds and universities; the Reformation and the peasant wars, the Thirty Years’ War and the impact of the French Revolution and of Napoleon; the struggle for supremacy in Germany and the struggle for German unity and freedom; the changing status of women and the fate of minorities; selected cultural forms and trends.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
Understand how the German lands came to aquire their decentralised structure and religious diversity; how a unified German language and culture emerged over the centuries; how modern Germany began to take shape over the course in the decades after 1800.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
The course is aimed at interested students of all backgrounds. No German language or other
special skills are required.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
Through an interactive lecture, supported by a Google Classroom site hosting links to suggested reading, videos and PowerPoint presentations used during sessions.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
There are no other costs, and students need not bring anything to class apart from an open mind and a readiness to learn.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
HEH47 Imperial Germany between tradition and modernity (1871-1919).
Dr. Rudolf Muhs, Emeritus Reader in Modern European History at Royal Holloway, University of London, studied at the universities of Freiburg and Edinburgh and has been teaching German history in England since 1987.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.
