History

Past & Present: Objects and History

Module code: V1467
Level 6
30 credits in autumn semester
Teaching method: Lecture, Seminar
Assessment modes: Essay

The cultural politics of the present often feature objects from the past, held up as signifying the nation, colonialism, or even idolatry. This module asks what an object can tell us about the past and what histories of objects tell us about the context in which they were written. We explore histories of objects written from objective and subjective perspectives, as well as how to use objects as a primary source. We conclude by focusing on objects and power: how objects are used by historical actors, and the continuing impact of colonial, imperial, and economic power structures on objects.

Module learning outcomes

• Deploy a historical perspective on contemporary problems through an exploration of their origins, evolution, and legacies.
• Analyse how contemporary perspectives may reshape our understanding of the past.
• Undertake a critical analysis and assessment of historical categories.
• Construct sophisticated written arguments that demonstrate intellectual maturity and integrity.