Conflicts in South Asia: the histories, memories and legacies of Partition in India and Pakistan

About this course

The course examines the end of British colonial rule, the creation of India and Pakistan, and the displacement, violence and social rupture associated with Partition in 1947. It considers the experiences of communities and women, as well as the longer-term effects on regional identities, relationships and policymaking. Teaching combines presentations with class and group discussion. Participants explore oral histories, material memory, literature, cinema, museums and post-independence attitudes, with suggested reading supporting consideration of how Partition continues to shape the present.

What you'll learn

• Explain key causes of the 1947 Partition
• Examine how violence, displacement and conflict affected communities
• Interpret oral histories and lived experiences of civil society
• Analyse representations of Partition in literature, cinema and museums
• Assess how historical events continue to influence attitudes and policies

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for newcomers to the subject as well as learners with some background knowledge. Participants should have a good grasp of English and be willing to engage respectfully with sensitive topics, differing views and group discussion.

• Suitable for learners approaching the subject for the first time
• Includes discussion of violence, loss, displacement and inherited memory
• Participation involves listening to and considering perspectives that may differ from one’s own
• Learners are encouraged to explore a suggested reading list

Before you go

• Participants may bring a pen and paper or a digital equivalent for note-taking.
• A suggested reading list is provided for preparation and further exploration.
• The source states that there are no additional costs.