The course is designed to give students unfamiliar with modern Britain an introduction to the main themes, events and personalities that shaped British life during the second half of the last century. Britain's story during this period was a remarkable one as the country grappled with economic decline, the loss of its superpower status, a new relationship with Europe and large-scale immigration. The resulting tensions challenged the very foundations and attitudes of a society noted for its caution and moderation. We will explore the dynamics of this evolutionary process by focusing primarily on political issues such as the constitution, devolution, nationalism and Britain's strained relationship with her European neighbours. Social and cultural aspects are analysed with reference to contemporary literature, film and popular music.
Course includes one hour lectures followed by seminar and video presentations.
Two fieldtrips to areas of local interest, eg. The Gower Peninsula, Dylan Thomas' boathouse at Laugherne, Chepstow Castle, Cardiff Castle, Rhondda Heritage Park, Tintern Abbey. If you are interested in taking classes outside of humanities and social sciences, such as in engineering, natural sciences, or business, please give us as much information as you can about the class you wish to take. There may be some pre-requisites before you are permitted to take the class at Swansea. We will forward all your information onto Swansea and they will match you up with equivalent classes.