Plague, Famine and War: Fourteenth Century Europe

No sooner had the Great Famine of 1315-22 taken its toll then along came the Black Death to wipe out half the remaining population but there was also a flourishing of art and literature.

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  • Start Date: 12 Apr 2027
    End Date: 14 Jun 2027
    Mon (Daytime): 15:15 - 17:15
    In Person
    Location: Keeley Street
    Duration: 8 sessions (over 10 weeks)
    Course Code: HEH12
    Tutors:  Vanessa King
    Full fee £239.00 Senior fee £191.00 Concession £155.00
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In stock
SKU
246414
Full fee £239.00 Senior fee £191.00 Concession £155.00

What is the course about?

The study of western Europe between 1300 and 1400.

What will we cover?

We begin by discussing Europe in 1300 and move on to look at the causes of the Great Famine followed by the causes and consequences of the Black Death. Thereafter we look at France and England during the first half of the Hundred Years War; the Holy Roman Empire; Italy; Spain; queenship and art literature.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

• Assess the validity of such terms as “the calamitous fourteenth century” and the “Age of Chivalry” used to define the period 1300-1400.
• Describe the social and economic impact of the Black Death
• identify the key events of the Hundred Years’ War during the fourteenth century
• Explain the issues faced by German Emperors in the exercise of power and how Charles IV, in particular, dealt with them.
• Discuss opportunities and limitations faced by queens during the period.

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

This course is suitable both for newcomers to the subject and for those who have some background knowledge. You will need a good grasp of English to keep up with the course. An ability and willingness to explore relevant shared resources will increase what you get out of the course.
However, as with most of our history, politics, philosophy and current affairs courses, an open mind and a respectful willingness to listen to and think about views with which you do not always agree are more important than specific levels of skills.
Given the nature of some of the topics the course will explore, we also expect everyone to engage group and class discussions with respect, sensitivity and the willingness to learn from others.

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

Each week there will be a PowerPoint presentation and a seminar-style discussion of original sources (in translation) pertinent to the topic. You are invited to bring along/describe items you have read in newspapers/heard on radio/seen on TV you think may be of interest to the group. You will be encouraged to do homework reading to foster debate. Most of the pre-session reading will be accompanied by questionnaires which we will go through in class. Participation in this activity is entirely voluntary.

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

You need only bring note-taking materials. All reading materials will be provided.

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

Other European medieval and early modern history courses are starting in September/October. Please see the City Lit website.

Vanessa King
We’re sorry. We don’t have a bio ready for the tutor of this class at the moment, but we’re working on it! Watch this space.

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.