The First Day of the Somme (HIH1506)

15 credits

This module examines the bloodiest day in the history of the British Army; a day which has entered Britain’s national consciousness. By focusing on a single day this module explores in depth the battle and its significance. This module will introduce you to the analysis of original sources – and their uses and limitations in the understanding of the past. As such it does not seek to present a fully comprehensive history of the first day of the Somme nor can it cover all the many sources that might be looked at for its study. Instead, the module looks at a representative sample of different types of source ranging from official accounts, diaries, interviews, newspaper despatches, interviews, film and novels. It will allow you to look beyond the national myths surrounding this infamous day, and revaluate the evidence for themselves.