Early Modern Studies (BA)
Faculty: Arts and Social Sciences Degree Type: BachelorOptions: Combined Degree, Honours, Minor
The Early Modern Studies (BA) program focuses on the period roughly from the 14th to the 18th century, a transformative time in world history that witnessed the Renaissance, the Reformation, the Enlightenment, and the early stages of globalization. This interdisciplinary program offers students a deep understanding of the political, social, cultural, and intellectual developments of the Early Modern era.
Key Learning Areas
Historical Context: Study key historical events and figures that shaped the Early Modern period, including revolutions, empires, scientific discoveries, and artistic movements.
Philosophy and Ideas: Examine the philosophical foundations of the era, including the rise of humanism, the challenges to traditional religious views, and the development of political and scientific thought.
Art, Literature, and Culture: Analyze the cultural achievements of the time, such as the works of Shakespeare, the art of the Renaissance, and the intellectual output of key thinkers like Descartes, Hobbes, and Rousseau.
Global Interactions: Explore how trade, exploration, and colonization during this period led to the early forms of globalization, influencing culture, economy, and politics worldwide.
Religious and Social Changes: Study the Reformation, Counter-Reformation, and the changing roles of religion in European and global societies, alongside the rise of new social and political structures.
Core Curriculum
The Early Modern Studies (BA) program blends history, philosophy, literature, and the arts to provide a comprehensive view of the period.
Foundational Courses
Introduction to Early Modern History
A broad overview of the major events, figures, and movements of the Early Modern period, from the fall of Constantinople to the Enlightenment.
Renaissance and Reformation
Explore the intellectual and cultural revolution of the Renaissance and the religious upheaval of the Reformation, with a focus on their impact on European societies.
Philosophy of the Early Modern Period
Study the emergence of modern philosophy, including key figures such as Descartes, Locke, and Spinoza, and their influence on contemporary thought.
Art and Literature of the Renaissance
Analyze the literary and artistic works of the Renaissance, including the poetry of Petrarch, the paintings of Leonardo da Vinci, and the plays of Shakespeare.
Scientific Revolution
Explore the early scientific advancements of figures like Galileo, Newton, and Copernicus, and how they challenged traditional views of the universe.
Intermediate Courses
The Enlightenment and Modernity
Study the ideas of the Enlightenment, including reason, secularism, and individualism, and their influence on political and social structures.
Early Modern Gender and Society
Examine the roles of women and gender relations during the Early Modern period, including the impact of the Renaissance and Reformation on social norms.
Early Modern Empires and Colonialism
Explore the formation of European empires and the global consequences of European exploration, trade, and colonization.
The Age of Revolution
Study the political revolutions that emerged during the Early Modern period, including the English Civil War, the French Revolution, and their lasting effects.
Literature of the Early Modern Period
Analyze works of literature that reflect the intellectual and cultural changes of the Early Modern era, such as John Milton’s Paradise Lost or Montaigne’s Essays.
Advanced Courses
Early Modern Political Thought
Study key political thinkers such as Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau, and their ideas about governance, sovereignty, and the social contract.
The Global Early Modern World
Investigate how the early modern period shaped global networks of trade, migration, and cultural exchange.
Baroque Art and Culture
Explore the cultural significance of the Baroque period, including art, architecture, and literature, and its relation to the political and religious climate of the time.
The Early Modern Novel
Examine the development of the novel as a literary form, including works by Cervantes, Defoe, and others, reflecting the rise of modern individualism.
Capstone Project or Thesis
Complete an independent research project or thesis that synthesizes the themes and issues studied in the program, applying interdisciplinary research methods.
Skills Acquired
Critical Thinking: Ability to analyze and interpret historical texts, artworks, and philosophical ideas from the Early Modern period.
Interdisciplinary Research: Gain the skills to integrate history, literature, philosophy, and cultural studies to understand the complexities of the Early Modern era.
Written and Oral Communication: Develop the ability to express complex ideas clearly through writing and presentations, preparing students for a variety of careers.
Historical and Cultural Awareness: A deep understanding of the social, political, and intellectual forces that shaped the modern world, with an emphasis on their continuing impact.
Problem Solving: Learn to approach historical and cultural problems from multiple angles, using primary and secondary sources to build evidence-based arguments.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Early Modern Studies (BA) program can pursue careers in various fields, including:
Teaching and Academia
Educators in history, literature, philosophy, or the arts at secondary or post-secondary institutions.
Researcher
Work as a historian or researcher in universities, museums, or think tanks, specializing in Early Modern history and culture.
Museums and Archives
Archivists, curators, or museum professionals working with historical collections, artifacts, and exhibitions related to the Early Modern period.
Publishing
Edit or write for publishing houses, literary magazines, or historical journals, focusing on Early Modern literature or history.
Cultural Heritage and Tourism
Work in cultural heritage preservation, tourism, or as a tour guide specializing in historical sites from the Early Modern period.
Public Policy and Government
Work as policy analysts, diplomats, or cultural advisors, applying knowledge of Early Modern history and global interactions to contemporary issues.
Writing and Journalism
Write articles, books, or research papers focusing on the Early Modern period, or work as a journalist in historical or cultural fields.
Why Choose This Program?
Interdisciplinary Approach: The program offers a rich blend of history, philosophy, literature, and art, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the Early Modern world.
Global Perspective: Gain insights into the global interactions and cultural exchanges that shaped the modern world.
Skill Development: Build critical thinking, research, and communication skills that are valuable across various professions.
Engaged Faculty: Learn from faculty members who are experts in Early Modern history, literature, and philosophy, providing personalized guidance and mentorship.
Flexibility: The option to pursue a combined degree or minor allows students to tailor their studies to their academic and career interests.
Conclusion
The Early Modern Studies (BA) program offers an in-depth exploration of a transformative period in history. By studying this fascinating era through an interdisciplinary lens, students gain valuable insights into the intellectual, cultural, and political forces that continue to influence the modern world. The program equips students with critical analytical skills, research expertise, and a broad understanding of historical contexts, preparing them for careers in education, research, publishing, and beyond.
