University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 9

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: TBC

This module surveys the architectural development of medieval castles in Western Europe and the Near East from the eleventh to the fifteenth centuries. About half the time is devoted to castles in the British Isles and the other to selected areas elsewhere, notably France, Spain, the Baltic lands and the Crusader Levant. The emphasis will be on archaeological and architectural history and the role of the castle in war and peace.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass at least 60 credits from {ME1003, ME1006, ME2003, HI2001, MH2002} or pass at least 60 credits from {AN1002, AN2002, AN2003, CL2004}

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 1 x 2-hour seminar, plus 1 office hour.

Scheduled learning hours: 20

Guided independent study hours: 280

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 0%
Practical examinations : 15%
Coursework: 85%

Re-assessment: 4,000-word essay = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr A D Stewart
Module teaching staff: Dr A D Stewart

Intended learning outcomes

• Demonstrate knowledge of mediaeval European and Near Eastern architectural, social, and military history
• Develop awareness of key historiographical debates, and the pertinent methodological issues
• Develop skills in using a variety of different sources of evidence – documentary, archaeological, architectural, theoretical
• Develop key skills of critical analysis, writing precision, and oral communication