Verdun & the somme - a centenary lecture

Course Content:
On 1st July 1916 the biggest shelling barrage of the War so far near to the villages of Theipval and Beaumont Hamel in the valley of the River Somme heralded the start of what became Britain’s bloodiest campaign and costliest single day of fighting in terms of casualties.

Further down the Western Front, France had been spending the spring and early summer holding out at the fort of Verdun. This fort became the symbol of French resistance and vital in holding off a German assault through to Paris. The Somme become the Allies attempt at alleviating this siege.

We will also look at the lasting effect these two battles hold on both France and Britain’s collective memory.

Was the Somme a noble enterprise, or was it proof of the maxim ‘Lions led by Donkeys’? How close did Britain come to an early breakthrough or its aims? Did it help ease the pressure on the French at Verdun?

Any additional course information can be asked through our course information lines.
Assessment Methods:
Assessment Method: Informal. There are no official assessments for this course

“How much homework will I need to do outside of class?”
There is no formal homework outside class but new material and resources will be constantly uploaded to Moodle and students are encouraged to read on the subject for their own pleasure.

“What will happen if I miss a class?”
Should you miss a class, please inform the tutor.

“Are there any other costs involved”
No

“Is there a reading list?”
There is no formal reading though books, programmes and exhibitions will be brought up during the course for you to take notes should you wish.