Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

This unit explores the nature of film as history, using Nazi Germany and the Jewish Holocaust as case studies. It will consider temporary newsreels, photographs and feature films, as well as historical documentaries and feature films, in the course of examining the role of film in past times, the influence of these upon historical understanding since, the strengths and weaknesses of historical film, the criteria historians should adopt to critically assess filmed history, and the part historians have played in film-making.

Objectives

Students successfully completing this subject will be able to understand:

1. The nature of historical film in its various forms.

2. The criteria for assessing the merits of historical film, and the ways film differs from other forms of historical representation.

3. The influence of film in the past and upon later historical understanding.

4. The role of historians in film-making.

Assessment

Film commentary (1000 words): 25%
Long essay (2500 words): 40%
Test (1000 words): 25%
tutorial participation: 10%

Contact hours

3 hours a week, comprising of films, lectures and tutorials

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study

Jewish civilisation
History

Prerequisites

A first year sequence in History or permission

Prohibitions

HSY3225