History at Queen Mary spans a range of historical approaches and periods. You could study the Black Death, Women and Gender in Medieval Islam, and the Crusades. Or in the modern era you will examine the social, technological and cultural forces that shaped our world. Topics might include Building the American Nation, Britain in the Second World War and Europe since 1890. Some modules will teach you traditional political history. In others you could look at the history of art and architecture, or combine history with film or literature. You could investigate topics such as the portrayal of the face in Western art and medicine, the representation of war in contemporary British popular culture or the lifestyle and values of Victorian Britain. This degree is perfect if you want to experience an extensive range of historical subjects and have the maximum flexibility of choice. In the first year you will gain a broad understanding of the shape of the history of Britain and Europe from 1100AD to the present day. You will then have the opportunity to explore the medieval, early modern and modern periods, perhaps covering subjects as diverse as Anglo-Saxon England and the Kennedy presidency. The modular system allows you great freedom to shape your own studies, either specialising or retaining a broad focus. You will be able to choose from political, cultural, religious, social and economic themes drawn from our strength in British, European, Middle-Eastern and American history.