131-241 Medieval Ireland: Conflict and Conquest

Usually 12.5 points of first year history.

This subject will examine the divided communities of medieval Ireland and the profound effects of two major influxes of people. Students will examine the political and social changes that occurred through the arrival of first the Vikings in the ninth century, then the Anglo-Normans in the twelfth century. Topics to be examined will include: hybridisation or blending of cultural groups; medieval concepts of difference, ethnicity and race; frontiers that existed between societies; the Gaelic reaction to Viking and Anglo-Norman advances; how modern historians have answered the question of whether medieval Ireland was England's first colony? Students will become familiar with historical and literary texts in translation, as well as other diverse sources such as archaeological reports. At the end of the course, students will have a demonstrated understanding of the different effects the arrival of the Vikings and Normans had on native Irish society and an awareness of the development of 'frontier' or 'hybrid' societies.

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

• demonstrate use of evidence in written arguments;

• 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;

• 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.

An analysis of one or more primary source documents, 1000 words 25% (due mid semester); a research proposal and annotated bibliography 500 words 15% (due 3 weeks before end of semester); research essay 2500 words 50% (due in exam period); tutorial participation 10%.

A subject reader will be available