131-217 Modern Southeast Asia

Usually 25 points of first-year history or Asian studies.

This subject will explore political, social and cultural change in modern Southeast Asia, in countries such as Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Malaya, Indonesia, Singapore and the Philippines during the 19th and 20th centuries. We will explore European colonisation, anti-colonial resistance, war and its impact on the societies of Southeast Asia, nationalism, decolonisation, and contemporary issues ranging from ethnic tensions, separatist movements, religious revival, economic globalisation and migration. The focus of this subject will be the experience of Southeast Asian peoples of key moments in history and of broad social changes. The subject will encompass approaches to social and political history and draw extensively on translated primary documents including memoirs, speeches and literature.

• 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;

• be able to communicate knowledge intelligibly and economically through essay writing and tutorial discussion.

A research essay of 2500 words 55% (due mid semester), a reflective essay of 1500 words 35% (due at the end of semester) and tutorial participation 10%.