LFU:online

Expansion and consolidation of specific knowledge in the field of Austrian history, taking into account current tendencies and controversies of research. The students will be able to develop a scientific question, to research for that problem and to present it. They are able to discuss critical arguments and to compose a standard text on the chosen subject.

Maps now accompany us in everyday life, even if we do not always perceive them as such and one could certainly argue about the quality and usefulness of google maps, for example. From the perspective of historical research, however, maps still represent a type of source that is rarely taken up in an adequate manner. Often one finds historical maps merely as beautifully colored illustrations to essays or monographs. In fact, maps contain a variety of historical information that could hardly or only with difficulty be obtained from the 'usual' written sources; for which, however, historians usually lack the methods.

The course therefore focuses on the following points: What makes a map? How can they be structured (topographic/thematic)? How are maps produced (technically and in terms of content)? Who produces maps and what are the dependencies of map producers? What methods can historians use to make maps useful for their own research? The Habsburg Monarchy is targeted as a specific research area, but examples beyond this area will also be taken into account. An intensive cooperation with the Department of Special Collections of the Innsbruck University Library is planned, as well as with the Tyrolean Provincial Museum Ferdinandeum, as the most important 'collectors' of historical maps in the Tyrolean region.

theme centered inputs and reading, discussions and oral presentations.

Course examination according to § 7, statute section on "study-law regulations".

Active participation, reading, presentation, written final paper

Continuous assessment (based on written and oral contributions by participants).