Teaching
As a fellow student, I have had the privilege of immersing myself in stimulating classroom discussions. In my role as a teaching assistant for an advanced historiography course during the previous semester, I embarked on an exciting journey, designing four interactive tutorials that complemented the weekly thematic seminars. The course sought to nurture a deeper understanding of historiographical trends and the dynamic forces that shape our understanding of the past by weaving together the vibrant threads of historical scholarship, classroom engagement, and interactive tutorials. In these stimulating learning environments, students embarked on a journey of critical inquiry, cultivating a profound appreciation for the multifaceted nature of historical studies and its enduring relevance in our world today.
01
Ancient History:
Myths and Legends?
In the initial weeks of the course, students delved into the works of esteemed historians such as Herodotus, Thucydides, and Livy. Additionally, they participated in a workshop focused on the art of reading modern historical writing. It was during this tutorial that I introduced Hesiod's 'Works and Days,' inviting students to embark on a comparative exploration of the methodologies and writing styles employed by ancient writers. These engaging discussions explored the intricate interplay between mythology and historical narratives.
02
The Nineteenth Century: Progress and Metahistory
Building upon the foundations laid in preceding seminars, students developed a solid understanding of the key Western historiographical trends that emerged during the 19th century. The second tutorial explored the captivating perspectives of Enlightenment thinkers and 19th-century historians, as they grappled with notions of progress and humanity's development. Through the works of influential figures such as Kant, Macaulay, Lord Acton, and Tocqueville, students embarked on a reflective journey, examining the complex relationship between metahistory and nationalism.
03
Interdisciplinarity: A Multifaceted Approach
At the midway point of the course, we ventured into the realms of interdisciplinary historical studies, which gained prominence following World War II. Three branches, in particular, took centre stage: cliometrics, new social history, and new cultural history. In the third tutorial, students were invited to delve into the captivating landscape of the English Reformation, utilising multidisciplinary approaches to gain deeper insights into this pivotal historical event.
04
War History: Evolving Perspectives
As the course neared its conclusion, students grappled with the evolving historiographical trends that have shaped the past few decades. Topics such as global history, critical theories, and public history took the spotlight. To bring these concepts to life, I presented students with the military conflicts between Ukraine and Russia. Their task was to engage in thought-provoking discussions, analysing how the prospect of war crime trials contributes to the writing of war history, public history, or global history. Through these explorations, students navigated the complexities of contemporary historical discourse.
