MO3346 Politics, Culture and Society in the French Revolution (1789-1799)
Academic year
2026 to 2027 Semester 1
Curricular information may be subject to change
Further information on which modules are specific to your programme.
Key module information
SCOTCAT credits
30
SCQF level
SCQF level 9
Planned timetable
Friday, 1100-1300
Module Staff
Dr S Easterby-Smith
Module description
The tumultuous events of the French revolution marked a decisive moment in the history of modern France, causing a radical restructuring of society, politics and culture. The Revolution brought about the downfall of the monarchy, the aristocracy and religious institutions. It also had significant and far-reaching social and cultural effects, transforming gender roles and familial relations, and inaugurating radical transitions in France's cultural, scientific and intellectual life. This course studies the political and cultural impact of the Revolution in France and its colonies between 1789 and 1799. We discuss the major events of 1789-93 and the transformations in the social hierarchy, religion, the monarchy, and gender relations. These changes are then placed in global context, looking at the spread of revolutionary ideals beyond France's borders. The course examines how these ideals were transmuted i during the Terror and subsequently reframed again under the Directory.
Relationship to other modules
Pre-requisites
BEFORE TAKING THIS MODULE YOU MUST PASS AT LEAST 60 CREDITS FROM {MO1007, MO1008, MO2008, HI2001, MH2002}
Assessment pattern
Coursework = 100%
Re-assessment
4,000-word essay = 100%
Learning and teaching methods and delivery
Weekly contact
1 x 2-hour seminar, plus 1 office hour.
Scheduled learning hours
20
Guided independent study hours
280