Early Modern History (MA) - 2013/2014 entry

This programme studies and compares early modern European societies in the period from the Renaissance and Reformation to the Enlightenment. One of its most exciting features is that it explores developments in Britain, continental Europe (notably France and Italy) and the wider world (particularly the Americas) in comparative perspective, and questions the distinctive nature of national histories. Among the themes to be examined are: the impact of religious conflict; economic and social developments; urbanisation; the mutual impact of Europe and the Americas; and the growth of state power.

This programme will appeal to all students of early modern history. You will be expected to read widely in both secondary works and translated primary sources, but there is no special language requirement.

Find out more about studying in the Department of History, Classics and Archaeology.

• Offers a unique opportunity to study and compare early modern European societies in Britain and continental Europe.
• Conveniently located for the British Museum, the British Library and a range of specialist research centres and libraries.
• Watch our video: Professor Catharine Edwards talks about studying in the Department of History, Classics and Archaeology.

The programme consists of three main sections: a core course, option modules and a dissertation.

In your choice of option modules, you may decide to range widely or to concentrate on a single area. A wide range of options are available. These vary from year to year, and include:

• Early Modern London, Society and Culture
• European Visions of Amerindian Peoples, 1492–1654
• Death, Disease and the Early Modern City
• The Decline of Magic – Magical Ideas in English Society, 1650–1750
• Medicine, Science and New Worlds, 1450–1750
• Opposition and Dissent in Early Modern France
• Plots, Conspiracy Theory and Political Culture in Early Modern Britain and France
• Popular Politics in Early Modern Italy
• Power and Authority in Britain, 1603–1689
• Power and Communication in Europe from the Reformation to the Enlightenment
• Renaissance Florence – Society, Religion and Culture
• The Changing Shape of Knowledge, 1550–1750
• The Origins of the French Revolution
• Travel, Empires and Cultural Encounters, 1500–1750.

You will also write a dissertation on a research topic of your choice.

You will find the British Museum and the British Library just a few minutes’ walk away from Birkbeck. Other nearby specialist centres of research include the Institute of Archaeology, the Institute of Classical Studies and the Institute of Historical Research, all of which offer regular seminars on research areas covered by the department.

Birkbeck also has active history and archaeology societies.

If you are interested in further research, we offer a PhD/MPhil in History.

Graduates go on to careers as researchers, as archivists, in museums and galleries, in education, and as journalists

Teaching staff

• Course director: Dr Surekha Davies
• Professor Julian Swann
• Dr Filippo de Vivo
• Professor Michael Hunter
• Professor Vanessa Harding
• Dr Laura Stewart

Programme handbook

Download the programme handbook.

• You should apply as early as possible.
• Interviews from January.