Course Synopsis:
The history of natural disasters offers insights into how the relationships between human societies and their natural environments have changed over time. Through a series of case studies, the course will trace the evolving history of natural disasters in global context from the late medieval period to the present. The course will address thematic issues including the construction of vulnerable landscapes and societies; the short-term impacts of disasters; changing patterns of disaster relief; and disasters and social change.
Learning Outcomes:
After successful completion of this course, an assiduous student will have learned to:
- understand natural disasters as outcomes of human and natural processes;
- understand the global processes that have shaped natural disasters over time;
- use key research resources to find primary and secondary sources for their project;
- critically evaluate primary and secondary sources at an appropriate level.
Method of Evaluation and Weights:
Midterm Exam 20%
Microthemes 25%
Research Paper 35%
Final Exam 20%
Total 100%
Texts Required:
• Course materials available on Courselink
Please note: This is a preliminary website description only. The department reserves the right to change without notice any information in this description. The final, binding course outline will be distributed in the first class of the semester.
