131-047 From Great Exhibition to Great War

Formerly available as 131-242/342. Students who have completed 131-242 or 131-342 are not eligible to enrol in this subject.

Usually 25 points of first year history, see Prerequisites or first year European studies.

This subject examines British society from its optimistic mid-Victorian 'High Noon,' symbolised by the Great Exhibition of 1851, to the very different society which emerged from the trenches of Flanders with its confidence and beliefs shaken. Students should complete the subject with a knowledge of the major social, economic and political changes in this society; the move, in the early 20th century, to a political democracy and the beginnings of a welfare state; the role and status of women in Victorian Britain, and the development of the first feminist and suffragist movements; the development of the modern labour movement and Labour Party; the relationship between Britain and Ireland, and the major challenges to the political union of the two countries; Britain's role within the 'New Imperialism' from the 1880s; and the major changes to British society brought about by the impact of World War I.

• demonstrate research skills through competent use of the library and other information sources;

• show critical thinking and analysis through recommended reading, essay writing and tutorial discussion, and by determining the strength of an argument;

• demonstrate understanding of social, ethical and cultural context through the contextualisation of judgements, developing a critical self-awareness, being open to new ideas and possibilities and by constructing an argument.

A research essay of 2500 words 55% (due mid-semester), analysis of a series of documentary extracts of 1500 words 35% (due at the end of semester) and class participation 10%.

A subject reader will be available.