Start Date
9 October, 2024
There will be 5 weekly meetings on Wednesday, 2 - 4pm, starting from 9 October.
Overview
Dive into the tumultuous journey of Ireland during the Early Modern period in this comprehensive course. Explore how the introduction of the Reformation under Henry VIII ignited a series of transformative events, shaping the course of Irish history. While historical assessments often overlook Ireland's role during the Tudor and Stuart dynasties, this course sheds light on its profound impact.
Experience the aftermath of Oliver Cromwell's conquest, evaluating the enduring influence of his devastating invasion. Conclude with an analysis of Ireland's state from the Restoration to the end of the Stuart dynasty, exploring pivotal events like the Battle of the Boyne and James II's exile.
Discover how Ireland's evolution—from regional Gaelic governance to facing English repression—redefined its identity and relationship with England. Uncover the often-overlooked nuances of Irish history, illuminating not just Ireland's transformation under English colonialism, but also its profound impact on England. Join us on this journey to better understand the Ireland we recognise today.
Syllabus
Session 1: The Irish Reformation under Henry VIII:
An introduction to the context of pre-Reformation Ireland, then an exploration of how that started to change with the Henrician reforms and the introduction of the Church of Ireland.
Session 2: Irish ‘Anglicisation’ and the Nine Years War:
A summary of the socio-political changes that occurred from Edward VI to Elizabeth I’s reigns, particularly those intended to chance Ireland’s political and cultural character. Examined alongside the Irish responses and a growing sense of Irish national identity (and the debates over that terminology), culminating in the Nine Years War in Ireland and its legacy.
Session 3: Ulster Rebellion and the Wars of the Three Kingdoms: Contextual exploration of events and trends in Ireland from the start of the C17th to 1641, when the Ulster Rising began. Impact and consequences of this rebellion in Ireland and England, as well as an exploration of events leading up to Cromwell’s invasion. Discussion of the Irish divide between the Nuncists and Ormondists.
Session 4: Cromwellian Conquest of Ireland: Assessment of the impact of Cromwell’s Conquest of Ireland, from his arrival in Dublin to the Restoration, in terms of social, political, demographic, and cultural impact. Discussion over how much this event in particular changed Ireland compared to prior developments.
Session 5: Restoration and the End of the Stuart Dynasty: Was the Restoration truly a ‘restoration’ of pre-Cromwellian Ireland? If not, what did and didn’t change? An exploration of Ireland’s history under the last two Stuart kings (Charles and James II), followed by a final assessment of the most influential factors in Ireland’s transformation and why these things happened.
Please note that the ‘last date available to book’ date is only a guide. We reserve the right to close bookings earlier if courses are over- or under-subscribed. In order to avoid disappointment, please be sure enrol as soon as possible. Registrations will not be processed until the following day if received after 3pm.
Course Lecturer: Dr Andrew Foster
I have been researching Irish history for over five years as part of my academic career, with particular interest in the early modern period, the Catholic Reformation, and Irish exile communities. I have assisted in the creation and teaching of undergraduate seminars at the University of Liverpool for over three years, including courses such as 'Power, Belief and Identity: Medieval and Early Modern Worlds, c. 500-1600 CE' and 'The Global History of the Present'. Currently, I am seeking to have my research published in either article or monograph form, with teaching offering another outlet for the topic I have been so passionate about researching.
Courses fees: Full fee £80/Concession £40.
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