University of St Andrews

This course looks at continental European history in the early modern period, and the expansion of Europe. The British Isles are not a major focus of this course, but British material is touched upon as part of broader European comparative treatment of several themes. The course is structured into two halves: New Worlds and The Struggle for Order: the first half focuses more (but not exclusively) on the period c.1450 - c.1600, the second half more on the period c.1600 - c.1770.

This course explores the political role played by queens in the early Middle Ages. Students study the constantly shifting representation of female authority (often depicted as unnatural and dangerous); examine various key moments in early medieval political history; and illuminate contemporary power structures. Students confront broader cultural phenomena - for example changing attitudes to marriage, sex, and masculinity - and engage with modern historiographical debates about gender and history. The course is structured around a series of texts written about and for queens.

This course looks at developments in Iranian history from the 19th century to the fall of Reza Shah in 1941 with particular reference to the rise of nationalism and the challenge posed by the West. The course assesses the various attempts at reform and the consequences of revolution in a country which is proving to be a major regional and international actor in the 21st century. The course looks at the way in which imperial decline has been managed with a view to reversing and restoring Iran’s fortunes as a Great Power. Particular attention is given to political development, the growth of the modern state, and the emergence of nationalism and political Islam.