Course content

Based on a historical analysis of different genocides we will analyse the structures and preconditions that have led to these mass killings, the role of elites and “ordinary” people and the response of the international community. We will discuss whether and in what regard the Holocaust occupies a unique position among the genocides, and evaluate the limits and benefits of a comparative approach. An important part of the course will focus on how perpetrator societies deal and have dealt with genocide, legally as well as politically and socially, and the impact of genocide on victims and perpetrators. In addition, we will address the role of memory, the political use (and abuse) of genocide through denial or instrumentalisation and the crucial role of historians in establishing facts to counter such tendencies.

Learning outcome

A candidate who has passed the course will have obtained the following overall knowledge and skills, according to curriculum description of the topic:

Knowledge
The candidate
-will have gained knowledge of the historical context in which important genocides took place and the preconditions that facilitated the mass killing.
-will, in addition, have obtained detailed knowledge of the implementation of selected genocides and be able to identify the categories of "victim" and "perpetrator" within each of these genocides.
-will have attained an awareness of the use as well as instrumentalisation of history in connection with genocide.
- will have gained insights into different methods perpetrators societies applied to reestablish social peace, and the important role of historical memory for victims and societies trying to come to terms with their past.
-shall have gained familiarity with legal terms (e.g. the United Nations Convention on Genocide) and key concepts in comparative genocide studies, and have gained awareness of the challenges associated with the legal prosecution of perpetrators and perpetrator states.

Skills
The candidate
-should have achieved the ability to identify ideological, economic, social and security factors that seem to have contributed to a genocidal development in a particular case
-shall have obtained competence to carry out comparisons of genocides on a scientifically verifiable basis
-should be able to explain the major challenges with regard to genocide study, the fate of the victims, societies dealing with perpetrators, and memory culture.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures and seminars. Approved seminar presentations and take-home exam.

Compulsory assignments

• Presentation during seminar - autumn

Recommended previous knowledge

None

Required previous knowledge

Bachelor's degree in History or equivalent

Course materials

Information will be given at the start of the course