Key facts
UNE unit code: HIST513
*You are viewing the 2027 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Not offered in 2027
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information
In this unit you will examine the many ways societies and states have expanded their geographical, political, and cultural influence as a means of increasing their power and prosperity.
You will explore the concept of empire across a range of historical contexts drawn from the Ancient and Modern Worlds. This unit focuses on several themes including the idea of empire, the means of obtaining and keeping empire, the relationship between imperial expansion and ideas of nationalism, resistance to empire and the consequences of expansion both on the conquering and the conquered societies.
Key case studies include the Roman Empire, Byzantium and the Holy Roman Empire as well as the maritime empires of Portugal, Spain, the Netherlands and Britain. Also featured are the empire of the Habsburg dynasty, the various empires of France and the French and the rise and fall of successive German empires. The Russian and American empires round-out your study.
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:
- display an expert understanding of the concepts of empire as appropriate to the context of their chosen area of study;
- critically discuss historical issues and problems that specifically relate to the context of selected topic areas;
- select, evaluate and synthesise ideas from primary and other sources;
- present a coherent, sustained and properly documented argument which displays effective communication strategies; and
- demonstrate an advanced body of knowledge related to the historical empires and be able to apply its relevance to contemporary issues.
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 | 50% | All offerings | Essay No. Words: 3000 |
| Assessment 2 | Yes | 50% | All offerings | Essay No. Words: 3000 |
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.
Note: Recommended material may be held in the University Library — purchase is optional.
Empires in World History: Power and the Politics of Difference
ISBN: 9780691152363
Burbank, J., and Cooper, F., Princeton University Press 2011
Text refers to:
The Age of Empires
ISBN: 9780500295496
Robert Aldrich (editor), Thames & Hudson paperback preferred 2020
Text refers to: All offerings
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