Terrific Tudors: Act Three: Social life
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- Start Date: 12 May 2025End Date: 23 Jun 2025Mon (Daytime): 12:45 - 14:45In PersonFull fee £169.00 Senior fee £135.00 Concession £110.00
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What is the course about?
The life and times of men and women during the second half of the sixteenth century.
What will we cover?
We begin by discussing the rise of local history studies as a discipline with the publication of maps and the publications of works such as John Leland’s Itineraries (1540s), William Harrison’s Description of England (1577) and John Stow’s Survey of London (1598). We will then move on to look at the impact on peoples’ lives of the religious upheavals of the period followed by topics such as employment, crime and punishment and medicine. Before our final session everyone will be encouraged to choose a chapter from William Harrison’s Description of England (which are very short) to read and comment upon when we meet.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
• Describe the contents of at least two Tudor authors who wrote about local history
• Identify common causes of death in Tudor England
• Explain how the Reformation impacted upon the production of wills and funerary display
• Describe the employment opportunities available for men and women in the latter half of the sixteenth century
• Read and evaluate a short extract from Harrison’s Description of England published in 1577.
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?
No other costs. Please bring a pen and notepad if you wish to make notes.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
Other courses in British and Irish history. Please see the City Lit website.
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.