Major themes and topics of the course include: nationalism and the modern nation state; imperialism and the relationships between Europe and the wider world; the causes and events of the two world wars, both within Europe and around the globe; the rise of new political ideologies and the failure of democracy across much of Europe in the interwar period and during the Cold War; the history of Soviet Russia; decolonization; the birth of the European Union.

By the end of the course, students should have a good general understanding of the key events and themes of the period. They will be encouraged to make comparisons across the period and between different states and societies. They will be asked to critically analyze differing interpretations and to reach their own conclusions, in order to build on their critical thinking abilities.

Students will gain experience in analyzing a selection of written or visual primary sources. They will develop and improve their skills in researching and writing, in order to produce effective research papers, as well as expressing their ideas orally.

Attendance at class is mandatory. More than 3 unauthorised absences will cause your final overall grade to be reduced by one level per excessive absence (ie. A- to B+, B+ to B etc). More than 7 unauthorised absences lead to a failing grade on the class. An excused absence requires a doctor's note or official evidence that you have had an illness, family emergency or legal obligation which prevents you from attending class. Please bring or email this notification directly to me unless there is a good reason not to, otherwise please go to the Faculty Support Office in the Guarini Campus.

Travel plans, or mistakes in travel plans, are not an acceptable reason for missing class.

Students must sign in on the class attendance sheet at the start of each class. Students arriving more than 10 minutes after the start of class may be recorded as absent. Please be punctual. Attendance records are based on the sign-in sheet so it is your responsibility to make sure you sign it every class.

CLASS POLICIES

 In addition to the attendance policy which you should read carefully, please note:

1. It is not possible to arrange make-ups for mid-term or final exams. See catalogue for further details.

2. Please notify me via email if you are going to miss class, in advance where possible.

3. Computers may not be used in class. Exceptions may be granted to individuals who present compelling reasons. If I find that you are using your computer for non-class related purposes I will mark you down as absent for that session since you have been mentally absent from the classroom.

4. Try to minimize all forms of disruption to the class: this includes arriving late, constantly leaving to go to the bathroom, eating, using your phone etc. This behavior is disrespectful and above all distracting to your classmates, and it prevents us from creating a productive working environment.

5. It is your responsibility to check the class Moodle site for messages, schedule changes, class readings etc regularly.

6. Be aware that all work will be checked for academic dishonesty.

7. Late work will not be accepted after the final examination date.