Course overview

This course looks at women warriors and military commanders in history, from the original Amazons to the present day. It’s often been an emotive subject, one way or the other, with the facts obscured by the prejudices of the writers, and what they wanted to be true. We will try to find the facts behind all this, while also examining how the concept was used in propaganda and mythology. Specific periods to examine will include the original Amazons (Skythian horse nomads), the Vikings, the medieval period, the American Civil War, and WW2. Apart from serious literature and archaeology, we will also look at what can be learnt from historical re-enactment (and how it can be misleading!), and how the whole concept has been used in fantasy and historical fiction, and in gaming.

Course description

Welcome to a captivating journey through history, where we shine a light on the often overlooked tales of women warriors and military commanders. From the legendary Amazons, believed to be Scythian horse nomads, to the valiant women who left their mark on the battlefields of the American Civil War and World War II, this course is a testament to their courage and resilience. We'll navigate through the complexities of historical interpretation, dissecting how biases and agendas have coloured the narratives surrounding female warriors over time. Through rigorous examination of primary sources, archaeological findings, and scholarly discourse, we aim to uncover the truths buried beneath layers of myth and misconception.

But our exploration doesn't end there. We'll venture into the realm of historical re-enactment, analysing its role in shaping public perception and its potential pitfalls in perpetuating historical inaccuracies. Furthermore, we'll delve into the fascinating intersection of history and popular culture, scrutinizing how the portrayal of female warriors in fantasy, historical fiction, and gaming reflects and shapes societal perceptions.

By the end of this course, you'll have gained a deeper appreciation for the multifaceted roles of women in warfare throughout history and a critical lens through which to evaluate the depiction of these narratives in various mediums. Join us as we unravel the captivating saga of women warriors across time and space.

What financial support is available?

We don't want anything to stand in your way when it comes to bringing Adult learning within reach so if you need anything to support you to achieve your goals then speak to one of our education experts during your enrolment journey. Most of our courses are government funded but if you don't qualify or need alternative financial help to access them then let us know.

What other support is available?

All of our digital content, teaching and learning activities and assessments are designed to be accessible so if you need any additional support you can discuss this with the education experts during your enrolment journey and we will do all we can to make sure you have optimal access.

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