Memories of past events live on and continue to affect the present in politics, society and culture. This seminar course introduces students to the concept of memory studies; explores the relationships between history and memory; and examines some of the ways in which societies and cultures remember and represent the past. Students will consider representations of twentieth century history in popular culture, especially comics, film and television, as well as formal means of memorialisation such as commemorative sites (memorials, monuments and museums).

In light of current debates about integration and immigration in France, we will focus on the history and memory of the French empire in North Africa, including the French-Algerian war and its legacies for North African immigration into France and for questions of contemporary French identity. Other topics to be considered in Summer 2016 include the two World Wars and the Holocaust

The course is likely to be of particular interest not only to history majors but to media and communications majors.

By the end of the course, students will:
* have a greater understanding of the processes by which the past is remembered, presented and interpreted;
* be able to identify and critique public narratives about the past;
* be able to critically evaluate the ways in which various crucial twentieth century events have been presented.

The course will lead students to consider the relationships between the past and the present along with exploring some aspects of the way history operates as a discipline.

Key skills used and developed by the course will be:
      - critical reading and thinking;
      - analysis and argument;
      - participation in and leadership of class discussions;
      - oral and written presentation of critical reactions to key cultural sources such as texts, films, monuments;
     - independently planning, researching and writing a specific topical study.

Developing an individual analysis, justifying it with appropriate arguments and citations, and effectively communicating these ideas whether orally or in writing, are the central requirements of the course. Students will also develop their skills in preparing and delivering a presentation in front of the class.

Attendance at this class is not mandatory, however class participation makes up a significant share of your grade and if you are not present you will not be able to participate. You will be expected to discuss the films we view and other material only covered in class – as well as material from the reading assignments - during your final exam so it is your responsibility to catch up on any material you miss.

 Attendance is taken at the start of each class for my records.

Please do not use laptops, computers or mobile phones in the classroom. If you need an exemption to this policy please come to speak to me at the start of the course.

It is not possible to arrange make-ups for final exams. Please refer to the university catalog for the attendance and absence policy.

This is a rough draft of the semester schedule which will be discussed and modified in class as necessary.

Assignments must be completed BY the date for which they are listed.

 The symbol P indicates that a student presentation is scheduled