Module description
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.
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.
Assessment details
1 x 3,500 words essay (100%)
Teaching pattern
10 x 2-hour weekly seminars