Module description
This core module examines contemporary approaches to the past through a critical examination of current literature, case studies – mainly British, European and imperial/colonial – and fieldwork excursions in and around London. History and Memory I and II are designed to explore the complex relationships between past and present, promote an understanding of the nature of history as a discipline, and investigate the social and public functions of historical research. The emphasis is on the often controversial relationship between professional historians and other groups with an interest in the past – politicians and states, cultural institutions, the media and the general public. History & Memory I serves as an introduction to the themes further explored in History & Memory II, and also functions as a stand-alone module for those outside the King’s History honours programme selecting the module as an option. Organisation of the module content is thematic rather than regional or chronological, and the skills you learn here will inform other research throughout your degree as well as your thinking as historians in the making.
Among the general issues to be explored are the evolution of the historical profession, the connection between history and nation-building (as manifested in monuments and acts of commemoration), the role of history in the ‘identity politics’ of minority groups, and the problems of preserving and displaying aspects of the national heritage as exemplified in London’s museums, churches and historic sites. Our case studies are global in reach, with a particular interest in dealing with the past.
As well as seminar- and library-based research, you will be expected to visit sites in London including: St Clement Danes Church (the ‘RAF Church’); Brick Lane; the Foundling Museum; St Paul’s Cathedral; the Old Operating Theatre at Guy’s Hospital; Postman’s Park; the Enlightenment Galleries at the British Museum, and the various locations featured in ‘Imperial Images’ podcast. On KEATS you will find podcast lectures and accompanying material relating to these field trips, as well as guidance on writing your assignments. Our intention is that you organise visits to at least two of these sites for each module per semester.
Assessment details
1 x 2,500 word essay (60%); 1 x 1,500 word assignment (30%); 1 x preparedness component (10%)
Teaching pattern
10 x 1-hour lectures (weekly); 10 x 1-hour seminars (weekly); 2 field trips