Medieval Ireland, 5th-9th Century

Course Description

This module comprises a survey of the history, politics, culture, literature and society of Ireland in the Early Middle Ages (from c. AD 400 to c. AD 800). It traces the transition from a so-called 'tribal' society to one in which 'dynastic' politics are the norm, and explains how that change is reflected in society. It ends with an assessment of the Viking impact in Ireland. The lectures cover such themes as Early Irish (Brehon) law and institutions; politics and society; the origins of Irish artistic and literary culture; the beginnings of Christianity and the later evolution of the Irish Church; the Irish abroad, and the Vikings. Students are introduced to some of the original documentary material used by historians.

On completion of this module, students will have obtained:
- An overview of the main social, political and ecclesiastical developments in Irish society from c. AD 400 to c. AD 800
- A knowledge of what are the principal primary sources for this period (in Latin & Old Irish) & an appreciation of how to evaluate them.
- Acquired essay-writing skills using original source-materials

Required Texts:
Dáibhí Ó Cróinín, Early Medieval Ireland, 400-1200 (Pearson)
Thomas Charles-Edwards, Early Christian Ireland (Oxford 2000)