Richard III: Life and Legacy

 

Richard III: Life and Legacy 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 Matthew Ward 

Learning Method: Online

Level: This module is at CQFW Level 4

Module Code: XE13510

Fee: £130.00 - Fee Waiver Scheme available

This course is currently unavailable for booking

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Overview

The discovery of the ‘king in the car park’ in 2012 led to renewed interest in Richard III and sparked fresh debates over his reputation. Despite his short reign, it can be argued that no other English monarch has attracted as much attention and controversy. This beginner’s module will introduce you to Richard’s career as Duke of Gloucester, his accession to the throne, his reign, the debates over his reputation beginning with the Tudor historians, and the archaeological dig which led to the discovery of his remains. Comparing contemporary sources with subsequent historical controversies, you will be able to develop your own interpretations of the king. Was he an evil tyrant? Can he be seen as a personification of the violent times in which he lived? How has his reputation changed over the centuries, and what exactly can the discovery of his remains tell us about the king?

Programme

Activities and tasks will be embedded into each unit so students can practise the techniques they have learned and develop their skills. Students will be encouraged to share their own work and participate in discussions on Blackboard. Alongside the learning materials on Blackboard the tutor will be on hand via email to answer any queries and provide guidance throughout the course. They will also participate in the online discussions.   

  • Unit 1 - Introduction and Lord of the North 
  • Unit 2 - Accession to the Throne 
  • Unit 3 - The Princes in the Tower 
  • Unit 4 - The Battle of Bosworth 
  • Unit 5 - Posthumous Reputation 
  • Unit 6 - The King in the Car Park 

Live webinar: discussion and module conclusion.

Learning Outcomes

  1. Demonstrate an understanding of the life and posthumous reputation of Richard III, and the subsequent historical debates surrounding his character and reign.
  2. Analyse, interpret and discuss a selection of primary sources related to Richard III.
  3. Select and synthesise information from a range of secondary sources, identifying key arguments in those materials.
  4. Search, navigate and utilise material on websites for secondary and primary sources.
  5. Collate, analyse and synthesise information from a range of material used on the module, to write a short essay which develops an argument. 

Assessments

  1. Source analysis 500 words (20%)
  2. Written assignment 1500 (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.