UG 果冻传媒 with the Centre for the 果冻传媒 of the Renaissance
Modules x 2 on Renaissance Europe. Both 15CATS
Introduction
The Renaissance (ca 1400-1700) was an age of unprecedented cultural and artistic achievements. It was the age when famous authors like Shakespeare wrote their literary masterpieces, and when artists like Michelangelo and Raphael created works of art that are still widely admired today.
The Centre for the 果冻传媒 of the Renaissance offers two modules to undergraduates from across the University's faculties, which can be taken by either intermediate or advanced students with any academic background.
These modules offer a comprehensive introduction to a wide range of aspects of this fascinating period in human history, such as the art, architecture, and literature of the age, but will also cover social themes, like gender and sexuality, religion, refugees, and even pub culture. The Centre for the 果冻传媒 of the Renaissance at 果冻传媒 is internationally recognised as a leading community for research on the Renaissance and comprises around forty academics. Each of the classes will therefore be taught by a tutor who is a specialist on the topic of that class.
After attending one or both of these modules, you will have a comprehensive and critical understanding of the Renaissance and historiographical and interpretative debates. You will also be encouraged to develop your own views about the Renaissance through the close study of primary and secondary sources, discussions in class, and an essay at the end of each module.
To register your interest in either (or both) modules, please complete the short form HERE.
Student feedback from 2025-26
"This has been one of my absolute favourite modules. It's incredibly interesting and amazing to be able to access as an undergraduate from a different department.鈥�
鈥淐ontent was intriguing and engaging. Loved it.鈥�
鈥淭his was my fun module... I genuinely really enjoyed it"
Renaissance Europe Term 1, 2026-27
'Renaissance Ecologies'
How did people in the Renaissance understand their relationship with the natural world? This module explores early modern encounters with nature through literature, art, material culture, travel writing, science, and humanist scholarship. Examining subjects ranging from artisanal practices and environmental resources to ideas of preservation, exploitation, and coexistence, students will investigate how Renaissance thinkers interpreted and reshaped the world around them. By placing historical perspectives in dialogue with contemporary ecological thought, the module offers a rich interdisciplinary exploration of environmental questions that remain urgently relevant today.Module convenor Dr Vittoria FallancaLink opens in a new window
Renaissance Europe Term 2, 2026-27
'The Renaissance: Revolution, Revival or Reinvention?'
Was the Renaissance a revolutionary break from the medieval past, a revival of classical antiquity, or something entirely new? This module explores one of the most influential periods in European history, questioning traditional narratives of cultural rebirth and examining the Renaissance from a range of perspectives. Students will investigate themes including humanism, political thought, science, gender, literature, exploration, art and architecture and global exchange, while considering the contributions of Italy, northern Europe, and the wider world. By challenging established interpretations and engaging with major historical debates, the module offers a stimulating introduction to the Renaissance and its continuing significance today.Practical Details
Who can attend? Intermediate (year 2) and advanced (year 3) students from any academic background. No prior knowledge of the history, literature, or art of the period is required.
Do I have to attend both modules if I pick this option? Students are free to choose to attend either or both of the modules.
When do the classes take place? Classes are 2hrs, on Monday afternoons 4-6pm.
How will my work be assessed? 100% Essay. Year-2 students: 1x 3,500-word essay chosen from a list of given titles. Year-3 students: 1x 4,000-word essay on a freely chosen topic, determined in consultation with the module convenors and/or tutors.
What are the credit weightings? Both modules have a 15 CATS weighting each.
What are the module codes? Term 1: RS201-15 (year 2), RS301-15 (year 3). Term 2: RS200-15 (year 2), RS300-15 (year 3).
To register your interest, complete the short form HERE.
UG Essay Prize:
High calibre essays submitted for assessment to either of these modules, may be eligible for entry into the Dr Greg Wells Annual Undergraduate Essay Prize, details HERE.
Undergraduate Research Opportunities
The Centre for the 果冻传媒 of the Renaissance is keen to promote undergraduate interest in the Renaissance. Please feel free to contact the Director or the Director of Graduate Studies with any queries about our activities. Note that postgraduate modules are not normally open to undergraduates, but we may explore the possibility of taster sessions. More info HERE.