Gods and Chieftains: Wales in the Iron Age

 

Gods and Chieftains: Wales in the Iron Age can be studied as a stand-alone course and it is an optional course for the Certificate of Higher Education in Genealogical Studies at Aberystwyth University.

Key Facts

 

Language: English

Duration: 10 Weeks

Number of Credits: 10

Tutor: Dr Scott Chaussee 

Learning Method: Online

Level: This module is at CQFW Level 4

Module Code: XE18110

Fee: £130.00 -  Fee Waiver Scheme available

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Overview

This module will examine Britain before the Roman invasion, with special reference to Wales. Students will explore the Iron culture in Britain and will raise fundamental questions about the identity of the ‘Celts’ in the period up to and including the Roman invasion. It will draw upon a wide range of Welsh sources and will seek to place them within the wider context of Iron Age communities in north-western Europe.

  1. ‘The Celts’: Popular thought and contemporary myths a. Who were the Celts b. Chronology of the Iron Age
  2. The geography of the Iron Age a. Settlement types and variability b. Regional characteristics c. Tribes
  3. The agricultural basis for society
  4. Homes and Fortifications a. Hillforts b. The house and its role in society
  5. The Role of Women in Celtic Society
  6. Technology and Craftworking
  7. Prestige metalworking and Iron Age art
  8. Trade, contact, warriors, and warfare
  9. Iron Age Religion: Paganism and ‘Celtic’ Christianity
  10. The Roman Invasion and the Celt

Learning Outcomes

Discuss the main features of Iron Age society in Britain generally, and Wales specifically, in the period up to and including the Roman invasion. Analyse and evaluate physical and literary evidence relating to Iron Age society in Britain. Explain their individual perspective on the interpretation of evidence for Iron Age communities in Wales. Use a wide range of sources to illustrate and underpin discussions and arguments about Iron Age communities in Wales.

Assessments

  • Written Assignment (500 words) Site Biography. Short site biography for a site in Iron Age Wales. 20%
  • Written Essay (1500 words) 80% 

Reading Suggestions

Reading suggestions will be offered throughout the course. 

Entry Requirements

This course is for everyone. No previous experience is needed and there are no formal entry requirements.

What Do I Need?

As this is an online course, you would need the following:

  • Internet access
  • Access to a laptop or computer with a web camera and microphone; the use of headphones might also be of benefit
  • Use of the Chrome web-browser where possible.