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EH5102   Environmental History: Nature and the Western World (1800-2000) (20)

Academic year(s): 2019-2020

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 20

ECTS credits : 10

Level : SCQF level 11

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: To be arranged.

Environmental history is the study of human interaction with the natural world through time. Prior to the nineteenth century, nature was seen as an integral part of history. Similarly, this module encourages students to view nature not as a static backdrop, but as a vital element of history. Focusing principally upon Britain and North America from the eighteenth century to present, this module explores the history of human interaction with the natural world. It seeks to understand how politics and religious beliefs have influenced answers to persistent questions - such as, How old is the earth? What is an animal? What is a human? What is life? Moreover, the complex mixture of global exploration and trade, agricultural and industrial innovation, and burgeoning population will be assessed in relation to concerns over the degradation of the environment.

Relationship to other modules

Anti-requisite(s): You cannot take this module if you take MO3314 or take EH5003

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 2-hour seminar

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%