History. See the future. It’s in the past.

This course explores the Emerald Isle from its Celtic, Viking and Norman history to its geography, language and culture. Learn about the pivotal figures that shaped Ireland’s history, the influence of the Irish diaspora on the world, and the rise and fall of the Celtic Tiger.

Outcomes

By the end of this course, you should be able to:

• demonstrate a general understanding of the history and geography of Ireland
• discuss the geo-political landscape of Ireland
• discuss the unique Irish view of life, both past and present
• recognise the unique beauty of the Irish language and its culture.

Content

Celtic, Viking & Norman history of Ireland

From the beginning, Ireland wore a welcome sign to invaders, or so it seems. We will explore the different impact each invasion had on the Emerald Isle and how the Vikings and the Norman particularly, became more Irish than the Irish themselves.

History of Ireland as part of the British Empire

From the 12th Century until 1921, Ireland was part of the British Empire. We will explore this turbulent history through a series of important characters and the role they played, both good and bad, in the history of Irish politics from Home Rule to Anglo-Irish Treaty - Elizabeth I, Oliver Cromwell, Daniel O'Connell, Charles Stewart Parnell and Padraig Pearse.