The three centuries which preceded and followed the Reformation in the sixteenth century represent a particularly exciting period of change and reform in the history of Britain and Europe. This module seeks to explain and discuss some of the events which lay at the heart of these changes within church and society during the late Middle Ages and the beginning of the early modern period. The religious background of western society will be considered, including issues of church hierarchy and the main religious orders as well as some of the popular movements collectively known as `heretical?. Further issues to be discussed in the wider social, religious and political context include the Reformation itself and its impact upon society in Britain and Europe, the Counterreformation, and the Renaissance, with special consideration of certain key figures (e.g. Henry VIII, Martin Luther and Erasmus) and their roles in the events of the period. Among the sources used during this study will be a range of different types of contemporary writings, as well a visit to one or more related historical site(s), in order to introduce a wide variety of evidence relating to this colourful period.