Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

This unit examines the emergent histories of post-genocide and post-conflict societies. It explores the negotiation of perpetrator, victim and bystander identities after genocide through histories of return and diaspora; and considers the local initiatives that rebuild post-conflict societies, including strategies of genocide prevention. It recognizes the different experiences of women, children and men in conflict and their different paths to reconciliation. Bosnia, Rwanda, Cambodia, South Africa, post-Holocaust German-Jewish relations, Germany's reunification, and Australia will be discussed, along with processes such as reparations, international criminal tribunals and truth commissions.

Objectives

Upon successful completion of this unit students will have:

1. an understanding of the human impact of genocide and conflict on the communities that survive it
2. an understanding of the modern historical contexts in which these conflicts emerged
3. an appreciation of the issues and the agencies involved in rebuilding states and societies after genocide and conflict
4. In addition, third-year students will develop the capacity to describe and analyse questions of memory and justice using historical examples.

Assessment

Major essay (2500 words): 50%
Short writing exercise or text analysis (1000 words): 20%
Exam (1000 words equivalent): 30%

Chief examiner(s)

Mark Baker

Contact hours

One 2-hour lecture and one 1-hour tutorial per week

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

Jewish civilisation
International studies
History

Prohibitions

INT2120, INT3140, INT4140, ITM4140