Key facts
UNE unit code: HIST517
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Not offered in 2026
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information
This unit takes an irreverent look at the history of Britain between the foundation of ‘Punch, or the London Charivari’ in 1841, and the outbreak of the Great War in 1914.
‘Punch’ remains one of the great sources of context for the Victorian Age. Its cartoons and content provide a scaffolding for our understanding of all the significant political, social, cultural and economic aspects of British history.
You’ll gain an insight into the press and periodical culture of the period, and explore a wide range of topics including the changing role of the monarchy, reform and the growth of democracy, through to the industrial revolution, urbanisation and modernisation.
You‘ll explore religion and the crisis of faith, gender, domestic politics and suffragism, migration and imperialism, race and ‘Social Darwinism’, art and literature, naval and military cultures and diplomacy.
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- investigate, interpret, critically analyse, reflect upon, and synthesise complex information and concepts integral to aspects of British history, 1841-1914;
- demonstrate an advanced knowledge and understanding of key historiographical debates in the history of Britain, 1841-1914;
- apply advanced knowledge of research principles and methods in interpreting a variety of documentary historical sources (with particular attention paid to satirical art, caricature, and cartoons from Victorian-era humour magazines);
- identify, understand, engage with, and analyse, particular complex historical questions;
- communicate effectively an advanced understanding of various historical concepts through well-argued, well-referenced, well-structured, and well-written prose; and
- exhibit advanced understanding and awareness of the relevance of historical events and processes for today's world.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 1 | Yes | 15% | All offerings | Primary Source Analysis No. Words: 750 |
| Assessment 2 | Yes | 30% | All offerings | Research Plan No. Words: 2000 |
| Assessment 3 | Yes | 50% | All offerings | Research Project No. Words: 3000 |
| Assessment 4 | Yes | 5% | All offerings | Online Quiz No. Words: 250 |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Textbook information will be displayed approximately 8 weeks prior to the commencement of the teaching period. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
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