Course Catalogue

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This course explores the cultural worlds of Britain, Ireland, and western Europe from the decline of the Roman Empire to the Norman Invasion of Britain (1066 CE) and Ireland (1169 CE). Starting in the early fifth century, we will discuss how changing socio-political regimes, mass migration, and new religious attitudes impacted the Celtic peoples of Western Europe. The Christian conversion is a major theme of this period, and we will examine the pivotal role the Celts, particularly the Irish, played in the transmission of Christian ideology and artwork. Key topics covered in this course include migration and identity, warfare and slavery (including changing attitudes to gender and warfare), and the material culture of Christian salvation.

Block 2, Weeks 1-10

2 hours per week for 10 weeks

Thursdays, 18.00-20.00

None

None

None

Portfolio consisting of two exercises:

1) analysis of primary written source (250 words): 25%,

2) analysis of an early medieval Celtic artefact, artwork, or summary of archaeological site (250 words): 25%

Essay (1200 words): 50%

This course aims to:

■ Provide students with the opportunity to study early medieval Celtic history and culture

■ Encourage careful reading of primary and secondary sources and visual analysis of objects and artefacts.

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ Explain the impact of political, cultural, and religious change on the lived experience of Celtic peoples in Britain and Ireland, including the role the Celts played in the spread of Christianity

■ Analyse the iconography of Celtic secular and religious material culture

■ Critically evaluate archaeological evidence and primary written sources.

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.