Medieval and Early Modern History at The Commonweal School
History is a story. What makes it important, valuable and engaging is that it is about us. It helps us to understand where we were in the past, where we are now and where we may be in the future. If humanity is to progress, everyone should study history. Aside from that it is just immensely interesting.
You will study four Units: 1, 2 and 3 are examinable units and Unit 4 is the coursework unit.
UNIT 1 – The Tudors 1509-1603
You will study the reigns of the Tudor monarchs from the accession of Henry VIII in 1509 to the death of Elizabeth in 1603. As well as studying the main personalities of the day, you will also be looking at how political, religious, social and economic changes transformed the lives of the English people during the sixteenth century.
UNIT 2 – Martin Luther and the German Reformation
In 1517 an obscure German monk named Martin Luther started a revolution which changed the course of European history forever. You will be learning about what he did and why. You will also be finding out how the Reformation, as it became known, impacted on the lives of millions of people in the sixteenth century and beyond.
UNIT 3 – The Witch Craze in Britain, Europe and North America 1580-1750
Why did people in the Middle Ages and the Early Modern period believe in witches? Why did they persecute and punish people for witchcraft? Why were the persecutions more severe in some places and at some times than others? You will be studying the so-called Witch Craze in Britain, Europe and North America.
UNIT 4 – A coursework question on an aspect of history in the Middle Ages
You will research and write an answer to a question on an aspect of British, European or World history of your choice between the fifth and fifteenth centuries. There will be a wide range of questions to choose from. An example could be: What effect did the Black Death have on Europe in the Fourteenth century?’
It is helpful, but not essential, to have studied history at GCSE level. You should have achieved a grade B or better to be fully equipped to take on the A Level.
How to apply
If you want to apply for this course, you will need to contact The Commonweal School directly.