This module addresses central subjects in modern European history, the Spanish Second Republic (1931-36) and the Civil War (1936-39). The Spanish Civil War pitted dictatorships (Stalin's USSR, Hitler's Germany, and Mussolini's Italy) against one another. In contrast, democratic countries, such as Great Britain and France opted for non-intervention. The course emphasises the European dimension of the conflict. Students will gain an appreciation of the political and ideological influences that shaped the conflict and the moral dilemmas of foreign intervention, issues which continue to be of relevance nowadays.
The special subject will provide a detailed study of a key period of Spanish history appropriate to the standard required of Stage 3 students. By reading and discussing historical and some literary accounts, students will learn to question easy assumptions and work towards nuanced explanations. They will confront common political and moral dilemmas concerning the propriety of foreign intervention and the ethics of neutrality. The course will also serve to demonstrate how a multiplicity of theoretical explanations can address a single historical event.
Total contact hours 88
Total private study hours: 512
Total module study hours: 600
Main assessment methods
Essay 1 (2,500 words): 10%
Source analysis (written): 10%
Essay 2 (2,500 words): 10%
Source analysis (presentation) 10%
Examination 1 (2 hours, essay-based): 30%
Examination 2 (2 hours, gobbet analysis): 30%
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
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Deploy sophisticated techniques of analysis and enquiry within 'new military history' and 'transnational history'.
2 Demonstrate an ability to examine and critically evaluate the merits of different primary sources.
3 Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of historical and contemporary views of a landmark event in European history.
4 Demonstrate An ability to use a range of physical and digital resources.
5 Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the evolving historiographical debates and arguments about the Spanish Civil War, its unremarked military history, and debates about its indigenous and international dimensions.
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Interpret a range of secondary as well as primary sources in order to create sophisticated assessment outputs.
2 Demonstrate an advanced level of research and interpretation and the flexibility to present findings in a variety of ways.
3 Work individually and collectively in seminars and to convey views in a succinct and effective manner using a variety of methods.
4 Demonstrate an ability to manage time and work-load effectively so as to produce a consistently high level of output.
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