HIS303: Humanists and Reformers – The Renaissance
Key details
| Accredited towards | Bachelor of Arts in the Liberal Arts |
| Unit type | Elective unit |
| Credit points | 6 |
| Indicative contact hours | 3 hours per week |
| Prerequisites | None |
| Offered in | Semester 1 |
| Tuition fee | Learn more |
Overview
This unit of study explores the period in Western European history known as the Renaissance, from the middle of the fourteenth century to the middle of the seventeenth century. It will focus mainly on the literary and intellectual achievements of this period, especially during the Italian humanist movement, the Reformation and Counter-Reformation and the Scientific Revolution. It presents a history of early modern times emphasising the philosophical, political and theological issues discussed amongst some of Europe’s best-known writers, including Boccaccio, Machiavelli, Erasmus, Calvin, Galileo, and Descartes.
Learning outcomes
The unit learning outcomes develop in students an awareness of the value and relevance of the study strand. On completion of this unit of study, students will be able to:
- develop an understanding of Western culture in the early modern era;
- analyse critically the impact of religious faith and division in Western society;
- identify and discuss the major elements of the clash between science and religion;
- discuss the key issues surrounding the challenge of rationalism to religious faith;
- engage in research, reflection and critical analysis of presented information and source materials;
- summarise and communicate orally in a logical and coherent manner;
- write clear and concise essays with the appropriate use of sources, referenced according to academic conventions;
- participate in group work and tutorials by undertaking required readings and contributing with clarity and coherence.
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