The First World War: Transnational Perspectives

The First World War ? which mobilized entire societies for war on an unprecedented scale - raises enduring questions about coercion, consent and violence in modern society. Taking the approach of transnational history ? which seeks to identify links and common themes across national borders- this course combines national histories of large and small belligerents (ranging, for example, from Germany, France and the UK to Serbia) with a thematic approach examining the place of the First World War in social and cultural change and continuity in Europe and the wider world in the twentieth century. Thus, our readings may consider diverse themes such as women?s war work, nationalism, religion and the use of poison gas and submarine warfare. Against the background of the war?s centenary, students will also engage with topical issues of popular memory and the ever lively historical debates and controversies relating to the First World War and its consequences.