Medieval / Early Modern History focuses on two of the pivotal periods of British and European History. Units 1 and 3 draw on the rich history of the 15th, 16th and 17th Centuries - the point where the leading realms of late Medieval Europe began to resemble modern nation states. This change arguably took place most dramatically in England under the Lancastrian, Yorkist and Tudor monarchies, springing from the dynastic conflicts between these competing forces that constituted the Wars of the Roses. Unit 2 looks further back to the Medieval era, examing the motives and impact of the Crusades and the Crusader States. This provides a fascinating insight into modern day Middle Eastern geopolitics. Unit 3 focuses on the rise and decline of witchcraft during the early modern period and how far it emerged out of the popular culture of the time. We also look closely at the nature of the persecution of witches, notably during the Witchcraze in Europe and North America. You may choose either a Medieval or an Early Modern topic for your coursework in Unit 4.