The Tragedy of the Great War

Although the Great War's consequences are indisputable, its origins remain contentious. Re-evaluating each country's role in the crisis, we will trace the political, social and economic causes of the conflict. Given the war's contrasting memories and national narratives we will also ask, should we commemorate without reproach.

By the end of the course I should be able to: Identify the main long term key political, economic and cultural preconditions, along with the short term causes leading to war in 1914; Express an informed opinion as to whether war was inevitable or avoidable by early 1914; Re-examine the origins of German aggression and concomitant guilt; Discuss which country was most accountable for the outbreak of war; Explain some of the war’s consequences, such as Germany’s divergent remembrance culture.