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ME1003   The Fall of Rome and the Origins of Europe (400-1000)

Academic year(s): 2019-2020

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 20

ECTS credits : 10

Level : SCQF level 7

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: 10.00 am Mon, Tue and Thu

The Middle Ages began with the fifth-century crisis of the Roman Empire. This module examines how political, cultural and social life changed in the Byzantine, British and 'barbarian' worlds in response to major upheavals. The first half focuses on the period up to the ninth century, exploring how the West dealt with the collapse and rebuilding of empire, and how the Eastern Empire responded to the Islamic caliphate. In the second half, the module studies how the emerging certainties of the eighth century fell away and new challenges were posed by new invaders, new ideas, and changes in the structures of society. In contrast the East witnessed a gradual Byzantine revival and re-emergence as a major power.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 3 lectures and 1 tutorial.

Scheduled learning hours: 40

Guided independent study hours: 160

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 2-hour Written Examination = 50%, Coursework = 50%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 50%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 50%

Re-assessment: 3-hour Written Examination = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Professor T W Greenwood
Module coordinator email twg3@st-andrews.ac.uk