Empire, Nation & Modernity in Eastern Europe, 1848-1914

Module description

The modules offered in each academic year are subject to change in line with staff availability and student demand: there is no guarantee every module will run. Module descriptions and information may vary between years.

The three keywords in the module title together evoke a particular historical conjuncture. We will look at two empires – the Russian and the Austro-Hungarian – as they contended with the rise of national sentiment at a time of rapid social, economic and cultural change (otherwise known as modernity). There will be a strong emphasis on comparative analysis, both as a way of capturing the historical specificity of these empires and as a means of reflecting more broadly on the nature of empire – a normal, not aberrant form of political organization for nineteenth-century Europe – at a historical moment when it was under interrogation as never before.

Assessment details

1 x 3,500 words essay (100%)

Educational aims & objectives

The educational aims of the module are: To increase understanding of the history of the Russian and Austro - Hungarian empires, 1848 - 1914; To develop familiarity with key debates on empire, nationalism and modernity in this period ; To illustrate methods of engaging in comparative analysis, especially by crossing geographical boundaries

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, the students will be able to demonstrate intellectual, transferable and practicable skills appropriate to a Level 7 module and in particular will be able to demonstrate: An understanding of social and political developments in the Austrian and Russian empires, 1848 - 1914; An understanding of the political, social and cultural ramifications of empire and nation in these regions; An understanding of the similarities and contrasts between the two empires; An appreciation of the impact of different historical methodologies and ideological positions on the writing of history; The ability to formulate their own arguments and questions about issues and debates raised in the module.

Teaching pattern

10 x 2-hour weekly seminars

Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.