Gain an understanding of who we are as a people, and why we are the way we are.
We will trace the course of Irish history during the period of direct rule from London in the ‘long’ 19th century (1800-1923). Conducted over an ten-week period it will encompass the main themes and events during the slow struggle for the return of some semblance of sovereignty and, ultimately, the attainment of political independence. In the first part of each session a general overview of a particular theme (Land, Home Rule) or a chronological period (1800-23) will be provided. This will then be followed by the close analysis of case studies and texts or documents.
Course Overview
What can you expect from this course? Choose from among the following. Homicide. Adultery. Mass murder. Betrayal. Bankruptcy and ruin (mostly of the 19th century variety). Inflated egos. Some self-sacrifice and nobility but lots of corruption, deceit, incompetence, and a fair quota of violence as well. Ireland under the Union wasn’t really a whole lot different from Ireland today.
You should also get a sense of who we are as a people, and why we are the way we are. We’ll be looking at Ireland from the perspective of the farmer, the shopkeeper, the housewife, the bailiff, the suffragette, as well as the politician and the policeman. From the bottom up as well as the top down. You will get as many opportunities as you need to stop the train, get off, and take a look around. You will be encouraged to inquire ‘what if?’ and then answer your own question. Studying our history is important and it’s useful. But above all it must be fun.
Assessment
Students must attend at least 80% of classes to graduate with either the Diploma or Certificate of Attendance unless a serious and verifiable reason for further absence is provided.
If completing the course online, attendance and participation is tracked through Moodle.
A pass grade on the written assignment will be required for awarding of the Diploma.
Course Content
Week 1 – In the Shadow of the Union
Week 2 – An Emancipated People?
Week 3 – Repeal
Week 4 – Famine 1819-1846
Week 5 – Famine and Rebellion
Week 6 – Fenianism and Irish political violence
Week 7 – Land and Politics
Week 8 – Home Rule and Parnellism
Week 9 – Constitutional Nationalism and slightly Constitutional Unionism
Week 10 – Endgame
Lecturer
Dr Myles Dungan
Dr Myles Dungan has hosted current affairs, arts and sports programmes on both radio and television for more than two decades. A Fulbright scholar, educated at UCD and the University of California, Berkeley, he is the author of 11 books, including works on the Irish in America, the Great War, and the Irish Crown Jewels.
He is the author of two plays and the presenter of The History Show on RTE Radio 1. One of his best-known works, How The Irish Won The West, has been re-published in America.
Course Fee
Asynchronous Online – Enrol and Start Anytime
You can enrol directly for our Asynchronous Online option from this box. Just click on the Enrol button.
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Diploma in Irish History (Asynchronous Online)
€695.00EnrolAsynchronous Online Diploma in Irish History
Classroom and Live Online Courses
We are also taking bookings for our September Classroom and Online courses…
Classroom-based:
€995
(€1,095 if paying in instalments)
Online course:
€895
(€995 if paying in instalments)
Non-EU students: Call +353 1 4160034
Why City Colleges?
- Courses for students who are passionate about their subject, delivered by leaders in their field.
- Live lectures which are also streamed live on Moodle and recorded for review
- City centre location in South Great George’s Street, convenient for bus, LUAS, DART
- Southside Dublin location in Dundrum
- Study rooms and library in our City Centre location
- Limited class size
- Parking
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