Global History Friday Lates: Chocolate
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- Start Date: 27 Jun 2025End Date: 27 Jun 2025Fri (Evening): 19:00 - 20:30OnlineFull fee £19.00 Senior fee £19.00 Concession £12.00
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What is the course about?
This is a one-off talk covering the history of chocolate. Widely used in Mesoamerica and brought to Europe via the Spanish conquistadors of the early post-Columbus Americas, chocolate became a luxury product for early modern elites which was an alternative to coffee and tea. Mass production via overseas slave plantations and technological innovations by families such Fry made chocolate available in many more forms and at an affordable price.
What will we cover?
The uses of chocolate in the pre-Columbian Americas and the growth of cocoa beans in the post-Columbian Americas
Early modern and modern chocolate recipes
Material culture and rituals of consumption – aphrodisiac and luxury
Industrialisation, mass production and advertisements.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
Briefly outline changes in the uses of chocolate from the early modern to modern periods.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This is an introductory session and no prior knowledge is necessary. A good standard of English and a willingness to engage constructively and respectfully in class debates/discussions are the only requirements.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
There will be a PowerPoint presentation with a handout of contemporary sources for discussion. You will be encouraged to share your thoughts and ideas in a relaxed and friendly environment.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
There are no other expenses other than note-taking materials.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
Details of the Global History Friday Lates schedule for 25/26 to follow soon.
Linsey discovered her love of History at school because of an inspirational teacher who showed her how history impacted upon every aspect of life and who never shied away from any topic or question that interested us. This ethos of an open and curious study of history is at the core of Linsey's teaching. Linsey studied History at the University of St Andrews, specialising in Medieval Scottish History for her PhD. In 2013, Linsey joined the University of the Highlands and Islands, teaching hybrid courses to adults of all ages and backgrounds. She has been working there for ten years now, developing and diversifying her teaching experience on modules ranging from the Crusades to early modern broadsides. Linsey is currently developing a few research projects, including a book project on a fantastic local legendary figure - Finella, Lady of the Mearns, who is purported to have killed a king in revenge for the murder of her son.
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.
