This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
This module considers the relationship between the English crown and aristocracy from the mid-fifteenth- to the mid-seventeenth centuries. During this turbulent period, England experienced considerable unrest as a result of the often vexed nature of monarcho-aristocratic relations – the Wars of the Roses, the mid-Tudor rebellions and civil war in the 1640s being the most obvious instances of tension and conflict – but there were also decades of relative calm and stability. The module will, therefore, consider not only the clashes between 'over mighty subjects' and 'under mighty kings', but will also explore art, culture, architecture and religion, as symbols of both royal and noble power, authority and influence.
Contact Hours: 20
Private Study Hours: 130
Total Study Hours: 150
Main assessment methods
Autumn term:
• Essay (2,000 words) 40%
• Primary Source Critique (1,000 words) 40%
• Oral Contribution 20%
Spring term:
• Essay (1,500 words) 20%
• Primary Source Critique (500 words) 20%
• Oral Contribution 10%
• Examination (2 hours) 50%
Reassessment methods
Reassessment instrument: 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 an in-depth knowledge of the growing power of the monarchy and the adjustments in authority and leadership (locally and nationally) made by the aristocracy.
2 Demonstrate a critical knowledge of some of the historiographical debates surrounding the subject and be well positioned to judge between competing interpretations of this era..
3 Formulate their own opinions on a variety of historiographical approaches, develop their communication skills and present a clear historical argument supported with relevant evidence.
4 Critically engage with a range of secondary source materials including articles and monographs and practice selecting and deploying historical information.
5 Examine and evaluate primary sources, whether texts or images, and understand their context, strengths and limitations, and value.
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Express complex ideas and arguments effectively using a variety of methods, which can be transferred to other areas of study and employment.
2 Demonstrate communication skills, presentational skills and information technology skills.
3 Work both independently – for example in preparing for seminars and research and information-gathering for essays – and within groups.
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