British Civilization

With due attention to the historical development of British society and its institutions, students learn to analyse current trends in British society and culture. They learn to use a wide variety of sources, both print and internet to keep up with changes. At the same time they also become acquainted with traditional institutions and cultural phenomena that have developed over long periods of time. Students gain an understanding of ethnic and regional issues in Britain today, as well as the broader distinctions among English, Welsh, Irish and Scottish cultural practices.

The course is meant to familiarise students with British history, culture and present-day British society.The course provides a survey of major aspects of life in Britain, such as people, government and politics, education, economy, media, leisure, sports and arts.

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Historical context: the emergence of Britain, industrialization and empire, post-war adjustment (1945-79), the Thacher revolution (1979-90), from Blair to Brexit. The country: geographical identities, nationalism and regionalism. Social system, social class, the changing family. Government: principles of government, the Constitution, the Monarchy, Prime Minister and Cabinet, Parliament. Politics and civil society: political culture and political parties. Immigration and race, the changing identity of Britain. Educational system in Britain today.Health care system in Britain. The significance of the National Health System in a time of transition. The place of religion in British culture today. Culture and lifestyle: literature, theatre, cinema, sports, popular music and fashion. The importance of William Shakespeare in British culture today. Britain and the world: international relations. The legal system. The economy.

1.The historical and cultural situation of the country and the changes that took place in social life clearly defined 2.The most important traits of British culture and its place in the world‘s culture critically evaluated. 3.The drawbacks and assets of contemporary health care and educational systems traced and clearly defined. 4.The importance of cultural phenomena in British society, such as religijon, mass media, sports, literature, and music, adequately interpreted. 5.The information from different sources on contemporary Britain is accessed efficiently and thoroughly analyzed from the historical, economic, sociological, and political perspectives.