131-127 Total War in Europe: World War Two

Formerly available as 131-013. Students who have completed 131-013 are not eligible to enrol in this subject. It is recommended that this subject be taken in conjunction with 131-124 Total War in Europe: World War One.

This subject will focus on Europe under the conditions of the second total war of the twentieth century and will raise questions about the causes of armed conflict, the nature of total war, and some of the consequences (social, economic, cultural and political) of total war in modern European history. Topics include: the situation of Europe after World War I, the rise of fascism in Italy and Germany, interwar diplomacy and its failure to preserve peace, the origins of WWII, the barbarisation of warfare, the Holocaust, the practice and propaganda of total war, war crimes trials and the legacy of total war.

• 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 proposal of 200 words 15% (due mid-semester), a research essay of 2600 words 50% (due before end of semester), a reflective essay of 1200 words 25% (due in exam period) and tutorial participation 10% (throughout semester)

A subject reader will be available