Settlement movements in Central and Eastern Europe since the Middle Ages (ERASMUS)

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In the course, the instructor will discuss the major migratory movements that formed the structures of modern Central and Eastern Europe in a geographic-historical perspective. Students will learn why German settlements guaranteed the success of some areas of modern Poland, Slovakia and Hungary, who the Deaf Germans and Old Believers were (who they are), and why we can come across Orthodox churches in Warmia and Mazury regions. The lecture will be concluded with an exam.

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The lecture examines the historical settlement processes that shaped Central and Eastern Europe, such as German Ostsiedlung, Wallachian and Jewish migrations. It explores their causes, socio-cultural consequences, and impact on the region's ethnic and urban structures. Combining historical, demographic, and geographic perspectives, it highlights the long-term influence of migration on the region's identity.

The lecture "Settlement Movements in Central and Eastern Europe since the Middle Ages" focuses on settlement processes that shaped the spatial, social, and cultural structure of the region over centuries. Key migrations and settlement movements are analyzed, including German Ostsiedlung, the colonization of eastern lands by German settlers; Wallachian pastoral migrations; and the influx of Jewish populations in medieval and early modern times. The lecture addresses internal factors, such as overpopulation in Western Europe, the development of settlement laws, and the need to utilize new lands, as well as external factors like imperial policies, armed conflicts, and climate change. Particular attention is given to the consequences of these movements, such as the growth of cities established under Magdeburg Law, the ethnic and cultural diversity of the region, and economic transformations.

The lecture emphasizes how historical migrations shaped modern Central and Eastern Europe, both in terms of urban development and social structures. Students will explore the mechanisms that directed the region’s development from the Middle Ages to modern times, forming its characteristic cultural and spatial mosaic. This analysis integrates historical, demographic, and geographic perspectives, providing insights into how the past shapes the present.

Student Workload: 2 ECTS = 2 × 25h = 50h (direct contact: 1.5 ECTS)

(N) – work in direct contact with the teacher,

(S) – independent (self-directed) work by the student.

Classes (lecture): 30h (N)

Consultations: 4h (N)

Assessment (creative task or exam): 2h (N)

Preparation for the exam (independent): 14h (S)

R. Barlett, Tworzenie Europy. Podbój, kolonizacja i przemiany kulturowe 950-1350 (The Making of Europe: Conquest, Colonization and Cultural Change, 950-1350).

J.M. Piskorski, Wygnańcy. Migracje przymusowe i uchodźcy w dwudziestowiecznej Europie.

P.R. Magocsi, Pod osłoną gór. Dzieje Rusi Karpackiej i Karpatorusinów (With Their Backs to the Mountains: A History of Carpathian Rus’ and Carpatho-Rusyns).

Skills:

1. Analyzing and interpreting historical maps showing population migrations and settlement changes in Central and Eastern Europe.

2. Identifying the causes and consequences of settlement movements, such as German Ostsiedlung, Wallachian settlement, or Jewish migrations.

3. Applying acquired knowledge to compare various settlement processes in political, economic, and cultural contexts.

4. Conducting critical analysis of historical sources on migration and settlement processes.

Knowledge:

1. Understanding key settlement processes in Central and Eastern Europe since the Middle Ages, such as German Ostsiedlung, Slavic migrations, and steppe colonization.

2. Comprehending the impact of settlement movements on the economic, social, and cultural development of the region.

3. Knowledge of the role played by states, religions, and empires in shaping settlement patterns.

4. Familiarity with specific settlement structures, such as towns established under Magdeburg Law or villages with distinctive spatial layouts.

Social Competences

1. Understanding the long-term impact of migration and settlement on the cultural and ethnic diversity of Central and Eastern Europe.

2. Awareness of how historical settlement processes relate to contemporary social and political challenges, such as multiculturalism and migration.

The lecture will end with a test consisting of closed questions. Passing with a score of at least 60%.

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