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Description
The decades of the British civil wars and interregnum continue to exert a profound grip on the popular imagination, as well as a powerful influence over at least some aspects of contemporary politics, and this course will explore what is unquestionably one of the most exciting, complex and contentious periods in our history, and one that boasts some of its most controversial and charismatic individuals, from Charles I and Cromwell to John Milton and John Lilburne. It will explore how and why Britain experienced civil war during the 1640s, and the political and religious ramifications during the late 1640s and 1650s, when Britain witnessed a republic, a written constitution, and the emergence of a 鈥榝iscal-military state鈥� and a major world power. Students will trace the political and religious changes in Britain during the mid-seventeenth century; engage with political, constitutional, and religious ideas, both mainstream and radical; examine elite and popular politics, both nationally and locally; explore issues and factors determining political consciousness, motivation and allegiance across the social and political spectrum; trace the emergence of new institutional structures and media; and assess the period鈥檚 historical significance and influence.
Module deliveries for 2024/25 academic year
Last updated
This module description was last updated on 8th April 2024.
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