Key facts
UNE unit code: HIST599
*You are viewing the 2027 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Not offered in 2027
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
Clothing is more than what people wear—it is one of the richest forms of material culture and a powerful social language, expressing implicit attitudes and beliefs of the cultures in which it belongs. In this unit, you examine the historical development of Western dress from the early modern period to the twenty-first century, using clothing customs to understand how different cultures negotiate class, gender, ability, sex, race, labour, nation, empire, faith, profession and identity.
You explore evolving clothing styles through social history case studies to gain insights into changes and social practices that are often difficult to trace in mainstream historical studies. This unit develops your ability to analyse material garments and related ephemera as historical evidence, while also considering the economic and technological systems that shape clothing use and style, from slavery to mass production.
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:
- demonstrate advanced and integrated knowledge of how fashion, clothing and uniform function as historical evidence;
- critically analyse and synthesise complex historical issues and problems that specifically relate to the context of selected topic areas;
- locate, analyse and evaluate ideas from primary and secondary sources, including a material culture understanding of clothing at a post graduate level;
- design and communicate coherent, sustained and properly documented arguments using effective and advanced communication strategies to address complex historical problems and issues; and
- critically evaluate and reflect on the contemporary relevance of historical issues in fashion and dress, demonstrating independent judgement and the ability to apply knowledge in broader social, cultural, or professional contexts.
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 (equivalent) |
| Assessment 2 - Assurance Task | Yes | 50% | All offerings | Supervised Examination This online exam will be supervised via webcam and screen sharing technology. Coordinated by UNE Exams Unit. Students must obtain at least 50% in the Assurance Task (and at least 50% overall) to receive a pass or better in the unit. No. Words: 2000 (equivalent) |
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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