Pass in at least two of the Level One modules History Units HST112-121.
This course examines fascism in Europe through a thematic and comparative approach. Each week a key theme in the history of fascism will be examined: from the intellectual and social origins of fascism, through fascist strategies for power, the nature of fascist rule, and varieties of fascist culture, to fascist and anti-fascist transnationalism and fascism in the post-1945 era. You will be encouraged to consider these themes not only in the most important and recognisable fascist movements of Italy and Germany, but also manifestations of fascism in the Iberian Peninsula, Central and Eastern Europe, France, Britain, the Low Countries and Scandinavia. By the end of the course you will be able to identify and compare the key characteristics of fascist ideology, movements, parties and states, and have a strong understanding of the historical events and figures which shaped European fascism.
The course can be linked to a course assignment, and there is a wealth of available secondary source material on most of the topics covered by the teaching programme. However, you should be aware that this abundance of sources requires an emphasis on detailed research and critical reading to discriminate between the important works on the subject and those of lesser value.
The module will be taught through weekly lectures and regular seminars. The subjects covered in lectures are as follows. There will be seminars relating to the history of fascist Italy, Nazi Germany and other fascisms.
Week 10: Fascism and Anti-Fascism: A European Civil War?
Week 7: Fascism: A Political Religion?
Further guidance is provided in the module course booklet, available through MOLE.
A broad understanding of the nature of fascism and its significance for twentieth-century history.
Their ability to assess the similarities and differences between Italian Fascism and German Nazism, and to decide whether both, and other similar movements in other European countries, can be seen as types of generic fascism.
Their ability to present materials in seminars, exchanging views with both the tutor and other students.
Their ability to research particular historical issues and debates in a more detailed form for essay writing, coming to independent conclusions on the basis of the literature.
Their ability to synthesize different interpretations and argue effectively from the evidence, drawing on the methodology of history, politics and other social sciences.
Their ability to maintain and extend their skills in the handling of primary source material.