Plantagenet to Tudor | Late Medieval England

Throughout this course students will encounter famous characters such as the chivalric Henry V and the devious Richard III. It will also go beyond these figures to explore the complex and tension-filled relationship between the centre and the localities. Key themes that will be covered include: kingship, governance, diplomatic relations, the development of popular politics and public discourse, rebellion, political theory and ideas of ‘common weal’. Students will encounter a wide variety of primary materials, ranging from popular poetry and chronicle accounts to acts of attainder, royal statutes and Parliamentary Rolls. The workshop format and field trips to local archives will allow students to get to grips with different types of primary sources and the skills needed for postgraduate study.

Target group

Undergraduate Students

Course aim

By the end of this summer school you will: Be able to discuss the role of the Church in medieval Kentish society Demonstrate an understanding of the importance of Canterbury, regionally and nationally, during the Middle Ages Show an appreciation of the interdependency of urban and rural society in Medieval Kent and England more broadly The chance to explore World Heritage Sites and iconic locations such as Dover Castle The opportunity to handle documents and artefacts, some of which are over a 1000-years old. Gained an introduction to some of the aptitudes, expectations and requirements of more independent and higher level study achieved through a range of seminars, lectures, practice-based activities and one to one tutorials Experienced individual and group-based learning environments consonant with the expectations and requirements of higher level study Increased your intercultural awareness through studying in an international environment with students from other backgrounds and nationalities