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 explores the 'lived experience' of Britain in the 1920s and 1930s via an examination of several key aspects of everyday life. As such it provides an introduction to the historiographical re-interpretation of a period once known predominantly as 'the devil's decade'. Historical study of an 'alternative history' of interwar Britain has gained increasing importance over recent decades. It stresses a whole range of aspects of social, cultural and economic life that are more positive than traditional images of unemployment, depression and poverty suggest. The growth of suburbia and consumerism; developments in attitudes towards women, and men; and changing attitudes to sex; are just some of the topics in this 'alternative' history. Our aim is to examine how the experiences of the majority were transformed in this period, and to gain a fuller understanding of these two vital decades in British history through an examination of the minutiae of daily life.

Relationship to other modules

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

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

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 60%
Practical examinations : 13%
Coursework: 27%

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

Personnel