University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 9

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: See http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/history/infoug/ugtimetable

This module will provide in depth study of particular figures both major and minor in the history of early modern to modern political thought in Europe, and a sense of some of the most significant contexts through which to understand political writings at a time of near-constant political, religious and economic upheaval. The focus of the course will be the long eighteenth century because it was during this period that longstanding controversy came to a head about empire, forms of government, sciences of human endeavour and morals more especially, commercial society, public credit, the possibility of perpetual peace, and the existence of nation states. The course begins with Machiavelli's call for an 'empire for increase' modelled on that of Ancient Rome, and ends with Tocqueville's claim that the future for all European states could be discerned from the development of equality in North America.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass at least 60 credits from {MO1007, MO1008, MO2008, HI2001, MH2002}

Anti-requisite(s): You cannot take this module if you take MO3019

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: 2-hour Written Examination = 40%, Coursework = 60%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 40%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 60%

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

Personnel