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HI2122 Ireland C. 1534-1641: The Beginning of the Modern Age

Silken Thomas

Module Organisers: Prof. Ciaran Brady and Prof. Susan Flavin
Duration: Michaelmas term
Contact hours: 1 lecture per week and 4 seminars (weeks 8-11)
Weighting: 5 ECTS
Assessment: 20% essay, 80% examination

This module investigates Ireland’s role in the wider world of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries and explores the cultural, social and political developments that laid the foundations to modern Ireland. Beginning in 1534 with the attack of Silken Thomas on Dublin castle, the lectures will cover topics as diverse as the Irish in Europe, the Reformation, the Desmond Rebellions, the Nine Years War, James VI and I and finish with the catastrophic government of the earl of Strafford.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students should be able to:

  • Outline chronologically and explain key developments in the process of colonization in Ireland
  • Assess the impact of these developments on native and society and politics and on Ireland’s relationship with Scotland, England and the wider world
  • Locate, and critically appraise, relevant literature
  • Undertake an extended analysis of select contemporary sources.
  • Communicate analysis and argument in written and verbal format.

Module Handbook (PDF, 900kb)


Last updated 26 September 2013 by History (Email).