University of St Andrews - Scotland's first university, founded 1413

Module Catalogue

For information on which modules are specific to your programme, please see : Programme requirements index 2019-2020.

Curricular information may be subject to change.

MO3053 The Power of Persuasion: Propaganda in Renaissance and Reformation Scotland

Academic year(s): 2019-2020

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 9

Semester: 1

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

The Reformation created divisions throughout Europe: with the religious schism persuasion became a tool to bring souls to salvation. In Scotland, this combined with political shocks such as the Rough Wooings and deposition of Mary, Queen of Scots, to prompt an unprecedented outpouring of public polemic. We will explore the circumstances which prompted this wave of vitriol and the range of strategies by which the crown and other political actors sought to cajole, prompt and persuade others to adopt certain beliefs and behaviours. Tackling a wide range of sources requires an interdisciplinary approach, we will explore the rich range of genres, media and rhetorical strategies employed, exploring the boundaries between fact and fiction, news and lies.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 2 hour Seminars (11 weeks), 1 hour Fieldwork (3 week)

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 : 0%
Coursework: 100%

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

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr A L Blakeway
Module teaching staff: Dr Amy Blakeway