Tudor and Stuart Britain (360-0-20)

Instructors

Scott Sowerby
847/491-7356
Harris Hall Room 207

Meeting Info

University Hall 121: Tues, Thurs 2:00PM - 3:20PM

Overview of class

This course examines the formation of the British state during the Tudor and Stuart dynasties. We will explore changing patterns of religious belief, the transformation of the monarchy, the ascendancy of parliament, and the experiences of ordinary men and women. We will look at Britain's rise as a world power, its relations with its neighbors and colonies, and the integration of three nations—England, Scotland and Ireland—in a single state. Sources will include writings by Queen Elizabeth, King James, and William Shakespeare. No previous background in British history is required for this class.

Learning Objectives

• Learn to evaluate primary sources, assessing the purposes for which the sources were created and examining how they address their intended audiences;
• Learn how to use primary sources to develop novel interpretations of historical events, movements and ideologies;
• Learn how to analyze and critique interpretations advanced in the secondary literature regarding political, social, and religious history;
• Construct persuasive narratives of change over time; understand the multivalent and overlapping causes of social and political change in the past.

Class Notes

Attendance at first class mandatory.

History Major Concentration(s): European
History Minor Concentration(s): Law and Crime

Class Attributes

Historical Studies Foundational Discipline
Historical Studies Distro Area

Associated Classes

DIS - Locy Hall 213: Fri 11:00AM - 11:50AM

DIS - Annenberg Hall G28: Fri 1:00PM - 1:50PM

DIS - Harris Hall L05: Fri 2:00PM - 2:50PM