Richard III: a medieval whodunit
- Course Code: HBH80
- Dates: 11/05/24 - 11/05/24
- Time: 11:00 - 16:00
- Taught: Sat, Daytime
- Duration: 1 session
- Location: Keeley Street
- Tutor: Vanessa King
Course Code: HBH80
Duration: 1 session
Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Centre for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.
What is the course about?
The events that led to the coronation of Richard III as King of England in 1483.
What will we cover?
We will chart the rise of Richard III at the expense of his nephews Edward V and his brother Richard of York. Richard is the only British king who has a strong fan club convinced of his innocence. Do you have an opinion? Alternatively, do you side with the parliamentary historian Helen Cam who famously said "I just do not understand how people can become so upset over the fate of a couple of snivelling brats. After all, what impact did they have on the constitution?".
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
• Question what is and what is not Tudor propaganda
• Use the impartial sequence of events to form or confirm your own opinions as to the involvement of Richard III in the fate of the two Princes in the Tower.
• Enjoy a healthy, respectful debate on the subject with those who hold differing views.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
No prior knowledge is required. However, a good standard of reading, writing and speaking English is essential.
An open mind and a willingness to engage respectfully in class discussion and debate.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
PowerPoint will be used to illustrate key points and then we will be reading and discussing contemporary sources (in translation). You will be encouraged to share your thoughts and ideas in a relaxed and friendly environment. There will be occasional homework reading provided but it is not obligatory.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
There are no other expenses other than note-taking materials. You are not expected to purchase any reading material. All essential reading will be available online in Google Classroom.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
HEH49 Feasting and banqueting: the politics of food in Medieval Europe
Starting in September is a new cycle of English history courses. Please see the City Lit website.
Vanessa King is a reitred university lecturer in Medieval and early Modern History. She is a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries and Honorary Fellow of Birkbeck College University of London. At City Lit, Vanessa offers courses and day schools on London, European, and Global Encounters in the Far East. She has published widely on the Anglo-Norman period (1066-1154), and is currently writing a book on Early English Queenship 600-1066 for Routledge. You can follow her progress via her website: https://queenshipinpreconquestengland.wordpress.com/ Vanessa’s expertise in medieval matters means she is frequently called upon to give public lectures and speak on BBC Radio. Vanessa's philosophy of teaching is to make history come alive through informative presentations with a good sense of humour. In her spare time, she enjoys nothing better than talking history over a glass of red wine!
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.
