Course Live_AC_paperturn-3 - Flipbook - Page 38
HISTORY
EARLY MODERN
A Level
Studying Early Modern History allows you to
explore some of the most dramatic events,
issues, and personalities in European and
British history. The course focuses on the 16th
and 17th centuries, a time of extraordinary
change and conflict that reshaped societies and
governments.
In the first year, you will examine the 17th-century
revolution in Britain, focusing on Charles I, the
causes and course of the Civil Wars, and one of
the most controversial periods in British history—
Oliver Cromwell’s republic and the subsequent
restoration of the monarchy under Charles II. The
theme of revolution continues as you explore the
dramatic transformations of 18th-century France.
In the second year, you will investigate the
phenomenon of the witch hunts in Europe and
North America. You will explore the impact of
religious changes during the Reformation, the
reasons why the majority of victims were women,
and why the hunts eventually came to an end.
TOPICS COVERED
Year 1
• The causes of the Civil Wars and the
character of Charles I
• The growth of political and social
radicalism, including groups like the
Levellers
• From Cromwell’s Republic to the
Restoration of the monarchy
• The impact and legacy of the French
Revolution
Year 2
• The theological causes of the witch
craze—why did people believe, and then
stop believing, in witches?
• In-depth case studies, including the
Berwick and Salem witch trials
• Coursework – Choose a question from
one of the exam topics (Modern or Early
Modern History) or explore a completely
different historical theme, such as
the Renaissance or the causes of the
American Civil War
Course Highlights
Engaging & Debate-Focused – Develop
your own interpretations of history and
challenge traditional perspectives
Immersive Learning – Field trips, historical
archives, and independent research
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
OTHER INFORMATION
CAREER PATHWAYS
Standard Advanced Level entry
requirements
In recent years, students have taken part in
study visits to New York, Washington, and
Edinburgh in collaboration with the Politics
department. We also offer a research skills
trip to The Keep, Sussex University’s unique
archive, which is particularly useful for
students considering studying History at
university.
Early Modern History provides valuable
skills for a wide range of careers,
including:
• Law & Politics – Careers in government,
diplomacy, and international relations
• Education & Research – Teaching,
academia, and historical investigation
• Media & Journalism – Writing,
publishing, and documentary
research
ASSESSMENT
80% Exam, 20% Coursework
TRANSFERABLE SKILLS
Independent research, critical thinking,
persuasive speaking, analytical writing and
teamwork
VA R N D E A N S I X T H F O R M C O L L E G E 2 0 2 6
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