History

Mass migrations of people within, to and from Europe in the modern period have transformed the globe. From the mass emigration of Europeans in the late 19th century through contemporary debates in the EU over refugees, study the intertwined histories of modern nation-states, border control and citizenship.

Are historical films a valid historical source? From “Birth of A Nation” to “Spartacus,” “Seabiscuit” or “Ali,” films “based on a true story” attract legions of viewers. This course analyzes the birth of cinematography and rise of the film industry, with the goal of understanding the complex relationship between history and films that represent the past.

Modern South African society emerged from conflicts rooted in the legacy of British colonization and the rise and fall of the apartheid state. Using scholarly works, primary documents, literature and film, explore the major social and political changes that took place in South Africa during the 20th century.

Alchemy, astrology and magic flourished during the 16th and 17th centuries in Europe. Yet, by the end of the 18th century they had been rejected by learned culture. How can we explain this profound transformation? Investigate the contours of pre-modern ideas of science, nature and the human body.