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

The purpose of this module is to look at a critical if under appreciated period of Persian (Iranian) history between the fall of the Safavid Empire in 1722 and the consolidation of the Qajar state in 1834. This was a period of dynamic change and transformation characterised by the rise and fall of competing dynasts who ruthlessly sought to re-establish the imperial legacy of the Safavids under the own particular leadership. This protracted period of turmoil was to have a lasting impact on the character of Persian state and society which can be felt to this day particularly with respect to the changes in the cultural and religious landscape of the country. The course concludes with an assessment of the early Qajar state and the impact of European intervention, in particular Persia's two wars with the expanding Russian empire which were ultimately to result in the loss of great power status.

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 MO3215

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 = 40%, 3-hour Written Examination = 60%


Re-assessment: 4,000 - to 5,000-word essay = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Professor A M Ansari
Module teaching staff: Professor Ali Ansari