Subject Area: European Studies
This course can also be studied in the following specialisation: History

Introduces the complex and ambiguous 'European idea' that has survived centuries of conflict and war, cultural and linguistic differences, the end of imperialism and, more recently, powerful forces of globalisation, demographic change and division over the shape and size of the so-called 'New Europe'. Explores the fluctuating character and boundaries of Europe - developments rooted in geography and history, cultural identities, religion, social structures, economics, warfare and security. Considers residual influences of these developments on concepts and understandings of contemporary Europe and the European Union, and the importance of exploring Europe's past and present within a regional comparative historical context.