Available in 2024
Course code

HIST3641

Units

10 units

Level

3000 level

Course handbook

Description

The emergence of fascist movements after the First World War propelled Europe into its most violent age. Why did this dangerous new ideology emerge on the political stage in the interwar period? What did fascism stand for? Why were European societies polarised between extremist ideologies of the left and right? How were the two most “successful” fascist movements, Fascism in Italy and National Socialism in Germany, able to come to office, and how did they cement their regimes in power? This course answers these questions by taking an in-depth look at Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy. It looks at the economic, social and political forces that gave rise to fascism, the path of fascist leaders to power and fascist methods of rule. In this context, it also considers debates about the nature of fascism, and whether it is possible to speak of ‘generic fascism’ at all.


Availability2024 Course Timetables

Online

  • Semester 1 - 2024

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the course students will be able to:

1. Identify and explain key themes in the early history of fascism and National Socialism.

2. Explain and interpret the origins, nature, popular appeal and impact of fascism and Nazism.

3. Interpret and evaluate a variety of primary sources at an advanced level.

4. Apply historical research and critical analysis skills at an advanced level in oral and written forms.


Content

Themes examined include:

  • The nature of fascism as an ideology;
  • The origins of Fascism in Italy and National Socialism in Germany;
  • Fascist social, economic and cultural policy
  • Coercion and consensus under fascist regimes
  • Fascist Foreign Policy, and
  • International fascism

Requisite

If you have successfully completed HIST3640 you cannot enrol in this course.


Assumed knowledge

20 units of History or at 1000 level or equivalent


Assessment items

Proposal / Plan: Museum Audio Guide – Plan

Professional Task: Museum Audio Guide – Advanced Draft and Feedback

Proposal / Plan: Write Test Questions

In Term Test: In Term Test


Contact hours

Semester 1 - 2024 - Online

Lecture-1
  • Online 1 hour(s) per week(s) for 13 week(s) starting in week 1
Tutorial-1
  • Online 1 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 2

Course outline