This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
Europe's age of Revolutions 1700-1850 created our modern political and social system. It was time when the ancien régime was compromised and a completely new system of government, administration and law was put in place. This module will focus on the impact of Enlightened absolutism, and revolutionary reforms, on Europe during this vital turning point. Topics covered will include: Enlightened absolutism; Russia, Prussia; the Habsburg Monarchy; Poland-Lithuania; the French revolution; the Napoleonic Empire; Spain; Congress of Vienna; France 1830 & 1848; the revolutions of 1848.
Total contact hours: 15
Private study hours: 135
Total study hours: 150
13.1 Main assessment methods
Autumn Term
• Essay 2,000 words 50%
• Essay Plan 500 words 30%
• Oral Presentation 20%
Spring Term
• Essay 1,500 words 25%
• Essay Plan 500 words 15%
• Oral Presentation 10%
• Examination 50%
Reassessment methods
100% Coursework
The University is committed to ensuring that core reading materials are in accessible electronic format in line with the Kent Inclusive Practices.
The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages: https://kent.rl.talis.com/index.html
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Demonstrate knowledge and conceptual tools to understand and interpret the emergence of revolutionary ideas, and revolutionary approaches to social transformation, in Europe in the period 1700-1850. Demonstrate knowledge of the key episodes of the history of the period, with particular emphasis on France and Russia, and some of the historiographical debate surrounding the subject.
2 Discuss the issues that are raised in the module, and to present their work using a variety of methods. The diverse ways in which revolutionary ideas were received in different European countries, will explored, thereby giving students an enhanced understanding of the diversity of human cultures
3 Use and evaluate relevant primary sources relating to the political, intellectual and cultural history of Europe in the period. Through a diversity of sources, students will be exposed to a variety of outlooks and learn about the importance of using a diversity of sources in their research into the past.
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1. Use intellectual and transferable skills, and certain kinds of understanding. Understand the problems that are inherent in the historical record and the limits within which interpretation is possible
2. Use critical thought and independence of mind, the capacity to marshal subtle and sophisticated arguments, and the ability to challenge to received conclusions, and look at a theme (in this case 'revolution') over a long period of time
3. Demonstrate essay writing and presentation skills, using a variety of methods. Make good use of relevant library resources word processing skills.
4. Use transferable skills in the following four areas: communication, improvement in learning, working with others and problem solving
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