This module offers an introduction to encounters between civilizations, cultures and societies in world history, based on examples drawn from the medieval, early modern and modern periods. It seeks to develop understanding of patterns in world history and an introduction to approaches within the field of global history. It will introduce specific case-studies, from the Arab conquest of the Muslim Spain and Chinese exploration of the Indian Ocean, through colonial encounters in Africa, America and India, to the Balfour Declaration in 1917. Students discuss the meeting of civilizations, cultures, and societies in world history, covering examples from the medieval period up to the modern day. They develop a global perspective, form professional and informed attitudes, and consider the methodology of global history. Students complete a learning log, in which they discuss the process of absorbing new ideas, approaches, and perspectives, and articulate the ways in which the lectures, seminars, and readings have changed their view of world history.
