History BA (B), The Making of the Scandinavian Kingdoms, c. 900–1300, 7,5 credits

Aim

In the period c. 900–1300 Scandinavian societies transformed. A number of pagan, maritime and loosely governed chiefdoms – enriched by trade and plunder – developed into three distinct European style Christian kingdoms. Monarchies took hold. The church was established, both as a powerful institution and as an important part of people’s lives. As economies grew, towns appeared. Towards the end of this development, both the elites and ordinary people had integrated with a social order that began to look much like that of the continent. This course surveys the changes that made Denmark, Norway and Sweden into European kingdoms, compares the different trajectories experienced by the three realms and introduces some of the medieval sources and methods used to shed light on this period.

Course objectives

Having passed the course, students should:

– have a basic familiarity with the political, religious, economic and social developments in Scandinavia, c. 900–1300; be able to indicate how these fields of development were interlinked; be able to establish explanatory sequences of important facts and events.
– be familiar with different types of sources and methodologies that are used to shed light on the historical problems covered by this course and in medieval studies at large.

Content

This course addresses Scandinavian early- and high medieval state formation and societal development from a European and comparative perspective, combining literature focused on Scandinavia with literature that takes a broader European perspective. This course also focuses on introducing sources and methodologies that are used to shed light on this period, and hence also serves as an introduction to medieval studies more generally.

Entry requirements

For admission to the course, at least 15 credits from History GR (A), 30 credits, or from equivalent courses at other Swedish or foreign universities.
(Äldre gymnasiebetyg)

Selection rules and procedures

The selection process is in accordance with the Higher Education Ordinance and the local order of admission.

Teaching form

Teaching is conducted in the form of lectures and seminars.

Examination form

M100: Summative assessment, 7.5 Credits
Grade scale: Seven-grade scale, A, B, C, D, E, Fx and F. Fx and F represent fail levels.

The course is examined through participation in seminars and written assignments.

Grading system

Seven-grade scale, A, B, C, D, E, Fx and F. Fx and F represent fail levels.