Module Identifier HY12520  
Module Title AGE OF MAGNA CARTA-ENGLAND AND ITS NEIGHBOURS C1180-C1280  
Academic Year 2001/2002  
Co-ordinator Dr Bjorn Weiler  
Semester Semester 1  
Course delivery Lecture   18 Hours  
  Seminar   6 Hours  
Assessment Essay   2 x 2,500 word essays   40%  
  Exam   2 Hours   60%  

Brief description


This module offers an introduction to the basic structures, developments, personalities and events which formed and conditioned European society during the High Middle Ages. Amon the issues discussed will be the question of national identity in England, Scotland and Wales during this period, the place of England within the broader cultural, political and social commonwealth which constituted medieval Europe, and the new structures and institutions, such as the Friars or the crusdades, which strengthened, symbolised, but also undermined this common outlook.

Learning outcomes


On completion of this module, students should be able to:
a) Identify and explain the key historiographical debates concerning the place of England within twelfth- and thirteenth-century Europe.
b) Demonstrate their knowledge of basic structural developments in England and Europe during the High Middle Ages.
c) Reflect critically on their own conceptions of the past, as well as the self-representation of past societies.
d) Analyse and evaluate a range of primary sources related to political, religious and ‘constitutional developments’ in England and mainland Europe during the period 1180-1280.
e) Gather and sift appropriate items of historical evidence
f) Develop and sustain historical arguments – in both oral (not assessed) and written work
g) Work both independently and collaboratively whilst being able to participate in group discussions (not assessed).

Reading Lists

Books
** Recommended Text
N Davies. (1999) The Isles.
MT Clanchy. (1998) England and its Rulers.
Woodbridge. (1983) Thirteenth-Centure England.
SD Church. (1998) King John: New Interpretations.
FM Powicke. (1947) Henry III and the Lord Edward.
DA Carpenter. (1995) The Reign of Henry III.
M Aurell (ed.). (2000) La Cour Plantagene (1154-1204); Noblesses de l'espace Plantagene (1154-1204).