HSY2105

The Great Divide: Religion and Genocide in Twentieth Century India (6 points)

(ARTS)

Leader: Ian Copland

Offered:
Clayton Second semester 2003 (Day)
Clayton Second semester 2004 (Day)

Synopsis: In 1947 the Indian subcontinent was partitioned to create two new national states—India and Pakistan—on the basis of religion. In consequence, millions of Sikhs, Hindus and Muslims found themselves on the wrong side of the border. They fled, seeking safety in the companionship of their co-religionists. Many were killed before they could find it. Many more were robbed, raped or otherwise traumatized. This unit explores the roots of the partition scheme, investigates how it was implemented, and tries to understand the psychology that lay behind the collective violence of 1947. It also looks at the longer-term results of the partition, such as the on-going international dispute over Kashmir.

Assessment: Class participation: 10% + Documentary exercise (1000 words): 30% + Essay (2500 words): 40% + Test (1 hour): 20% Students taking the subject at Level 3 will be expected to demonstrate more sophisticated analytical skills and submit work incorporating a higher level of competence in independent reading and research.

Contact Hours: 2.5 hours of lectures and tutorials over 12 weeks

Prerequisites: A first-year sequence in History or permission

Prohibitions: HSY3105