Available in 2024
Course code

HIST2031

Units

10 units

Level

2000 level

Course handbook

Description

Cinema is a powerful medium for the interpretation of the past. Some film biographies, period pieces, and documentaries have provided us with insightful information about human history; others have distorted issues or served as propaganda. This course will study the challenges and promises of film as cultural artefact, introducing students to its contested nature. It draws on theoretical perspectives and critical tools to support the study of history.


Availability2024 Course Timetables

Callaghan

  • Semester 2 - 2024

Learning outcomes

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

1. Critique the complex relationship between cinematic invention and historical knowledge.

2. Analyse the historical value of film as a site of cultural expression and conflict with the potential to influence cultural change.

3. Identify historical debates in the contested nature of historical representation.

4. Conduct research independently and express clear arguments, either orally or in writing.


Content

This course will focus on societies at war in the modern era and representations of those societies through the medium of the film. It will offer an in-depth, semester long study of predominantly twentieth century conflicts which may include the First and Second World Wars (man in combat, anti-militarism, POWs, enemy perspectives, the Holocaust), Cold War and post-war colonial struggles (focusing on Vietnam and the threat of nuclear annihilation), as well as terror.


Requisite

This course replaces HIST3030. If you have successfully completed HIST3030 you cannot enrol in this course.


Assumed knowledge

There is no assumed knowledge in either history or film although it is preferred that students have done at least 10 units at first year level.


Assessment items

Journal: Journal

Tutorial / Laboratory Exercises: Oral contribution

Proposal / Plan: Essay proposal

Essay: Research essay


Contact hours

Semester 2 - 2024 - Callaghan

Lecture-1
  • Face to Face On Campus 1 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1
Self-Directed Learning-1
  • Online 2 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s)
  • Online Film Viewing
Tutorial-1
  • Face to Face On Campus 1 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1

Course outline