Course Catalogue

The Art of War: Concepts and Theories ARCH5038

  • Academic Session: 2026-27
  • School: School of Humanities
  • Credits: 20
  • Level: Level 5 (SCQF level 11)
  • Typically Offered: Semester 1
  • Available to Visiting Students: Yes
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No
  • Curriculum For Life: No

Short Description

This course will provide an introduction to the study of conflict in its various forms, ranging from prehistoric tribal conflict to total war in an industrialised world. It will help students to understand the way that evolving tactics and technology within varying social contexts have influenced the character of conflict over time. The course will also examine the relationship between history and archaeology through the use of historical sources as a framework for archaeological research.

Timetable

1 hr lecture with 1 hr seminar once a week over 10 weeks

Requirements of Entry

Standard entry to Masters at College level.

Excluded Courses

None

Co-requisites

None

Assessment

The standard assessments for this course are:

■ Two 2,500 word essays, 50% weighting each

 

If required, for instance where a disability prevents a student from undertaking a specific method of assessment, the following alternatives are available:

■ There is no alternative to the essay, but flexible deadlines can be offered as reasonable adjustments (students should follow the usual process for extensions)

 

Further reasonable adjustments may be provided where necessary. Students are encouraged to consult with the course convenor.

Course Aims

■ To introduce the study of conflict in its various forms, ranging from prehistoric conflict up to the twentieth century.

■ To examine how changing tactics and technology have influenced the character of conflict over time.

■ To analyse the relationship between history and archaeology through the use of historical sources as a framework for archaeological research.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ interpret and analyse the archaeological record on conflict sites with regard to military practice

■ evaluate the historical record as it pertains to the study of conflict with a knowledgeable awareness of the benefits and drawbacks of current interpretative approaches to that record.

■ write reports and undertake fieldwork in a highly interdisciplinary field, mobilising both archaeological and historic sources.

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

No exceptions