M.A. in History Student Handbook 2011-2012

HIST425: Introduction to Latin Translation for Historians
Module Tutor: Professor John Thorley
This is a special intensive module for students who have little or no previous knowledge of Latin. The
module concentrates on the basics of Latin Grammar and vocabulary as used in the Medieval period,
though it will also be very useful for students of the Roman and Renaissance periods. By the end of
the module students should be able to read sources such as title deeds, court rolls, government
records, wills, and inscriptions. Help will be given to individual students on Latin texts relevant to
their dissertation or thesis.
Taught: Michaelmas, Lent and early Summer Terms.
Assessment: Two module work exercises assessed at 20% and a final examination assessed at 60%.
Selected Reading:
• J. Thorley, Documents in Medieval Latin.
• E. A. Gooder, Latin for Local Historians.
• R. Latham (ed.), Medieval Latin Word-List.
• Any standard Latin-English dictionary.
HIST426: Digital Humanities
Module Convenor: Dr Ian Gregory
This unit provides a basic introduction to ways in which digital technology can be employed to
enhance research methodology. The first half of the module explores the potential of spreadsheets and
databases, particularly Microsoft Excel, and demonstrates how they can be used to analyse and
present historical information. No prior experience of computing is required or assumed. It utilises a
variety of existing datasets, compiled by staff and students based on major sources for (largely)
British history. As such is it also intended to enhance awareness of the location, structure, uses and
limitations of categories of some primary sources.
Students are encouraged to identify sources relevant to their own areas of interest to develop in their
assignments. The second half provides an introduction to GIS (Geographical Information Systems)
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