War in the 20th Century: Theory and Practice

Module description

This module explores the theory and practice of so-called ‘conventional’ war during the twentieth century. It focuses on the battlefield and the operational level of war in order to engage with the practice and practitioners of high-intensity conflict. It will consider the challenges faced as warfare evolved in the era of industrialization and mass society and the nature and effectiveness of militaries’ responses in land and joint warfare. The methodology is essentially historical, and the module’s chronological and geographical range covers the two world wars and post-1945 conventional conflicts. Students will use their understanding of theory to analyse a particular operation of their own choosing, and will develop skills of research, source analysis and critical assessment in relation to the nature and changing practices of warfare. 

Assessment details

Historiographical survey	1000 words	20%
Essay	2500 words	40%
Operational Case Study	2500 words	40%

Learning outcomes

Upon successfully completing this module students will:

• Be aware of the key concepts of and developments in conventional warfare in the twentieth century.
• Be familiar with the ideas of military theorists and their evolution in response to military experience.
• Understand how theory and military practice interrelate.
• Be able to analyse the nature and effectiveness of high-intensity military operations.
• Have demonstrated research and analytical skills in relation to historical material by designing and carrying out an independent research case study assessing a military operation.

Teaching pattern

The course consists of lectures and seminars. Lectures should be used to deepen and broaden your understanding of the subject, which should help you to engage in seminar discussions, and to prepare for the examinations. Seminars will provide students with the opportunity to explain, and interpret, seminar questions, before an audience of their peers, and to discuss the issues, which are raised in the student’s presentation to the group. 

Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.