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Queen Isabella I of Castile: A European History Course
Caitlyn Jacobs, M.A.
Average rating:4.6Number of reviews:(8)
In this ten week course, students will learn about the life and reign of Isabella I of Castile. Her reign unified Spain by her marriage to Ferdinand, and their religious wars led to a unified Catholic state.
Class experience
This ten-week course will delve into the life and reign of Isabella I of Castile, one of the most influential monarchs in Spanish history. Through a chronological exploration of her achievements, challenges, and impact on Spain and beyond, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of Isabella's significance as a ruler, diplomat, and patron of exploration. Week 1: Early Life and Marriage • Introduction to Isabella's upbringing, family background, and education • Overview of Isabella's...
10 lessons//10 Weeks
Week 1Lesson 1Isabella's Early Life and Marriage• Introduction to Isabella's upbringing, family background, and education • Overview of Isabella's marriage to Ferdinand II of Aragon and its political significance • Analysis of Isabella's role within the context of the Castilian court and society • Examination of the challenges and opportunities Isabella faced early in her life and marriage.Week 2Lesson 2The Last Years of Enrique's Life• Exploration of the political climate in Castile during the later years of King Enrique IV's reign • Analysis of the succession crisis and the controversy surrounding Enrique's legitimacy • Discussion of the factions and power struggles within the Castilian nobility • Examination of Isabella's role in navigating the complex dynamics of Enrique's courtWeek 3Lesson 3Isabella's Coronation and the Conflict with Portugal• Overview of Isabella's coronation as Queen of Castile and her consolidation of power • Introduction to the conflict with Portugal over succession to the Castilian throne • Analysis of the causes and consequences of the war with Portugal • Discussion of Isabella's leadership and decision-making during the early years of her reignWeek 4Lesson 4The End of the Conflict with Portugal and the Birth of a Son• Examination of the resolution of the conflict with Portugal and the Treaty of Alcáçovas. • Analysis of the significance of the treaty and its impact on Castilian-Portuguese relations • Exploration of the birth of Isabella and Ferdinand's son and heir, Juan, Prince of Asturias • Discussion of the implications of Juan's birth for the succession and stability of Castile • Discussion of the reforms of the Cortes of 1480.Week 5Lesson 5The Early Inquisition and the Beginning of War against Granada• Introduction to the establishment of the Spanish Inquisition and its impact on religious and political life • Analysis of Isabella's involvement in the early stages of the Inquisition • Overview of the preparations for war against the Emirate of Granada • Examination of the religious and geopolitical factors motivating the conflict with GranadaWeek 6Lesson 6The War with Granada and the Reconquista• Exploration of the military campaigns and key battles of the Granada War • Analysis of the strategies and tactics employed by Isabella and Ferdinand in the Reconquista • Discussion of the significance of the fall of Granada and the completion of the Reconquista • Examination of the impact of the Reconquista on Spanish society, culture, and identityWeek 7Lesson 7The Funding of Columbus's Voyage• Overview of Isabella and Ferdinand's support for Christopher Columbus's exploration project • Analysis of the financial and logistical challenges involved in funding Columbus's voyage. • Discussion of the motivations and expectations behind Isabella's decision to sponsor Columbus. • Examination of the implications of Columbus's discovery of the Americas for Castile and SpainWeek 8Lesson 8Prince Juan's Death and the Marriage Agreements with Daughters• Exploration of the impact of Prince Juan's untimely death on the succession to the Castilian throne • Analysis of the marriage alliances arranged by Isabella and Ferdinand for their daughters. • Discussion of the political and diplomatic significance of the marriage agreements • Examination of Isabella's efforts to secure the future stability and prosperity of Castile through dynastic marriages.Week 9Lesson 9The Last Years of Isabella's Reign• Overview of the challenges and achievements of Isabella's later years as queen • Analysis of Isabella's domestic and foreign policies during the latter part of her reign • Discussion of Isabella's legacy and her impact on Castilian and Spanish history • Examination of the transition of power and the succession crisis following Isabella's deathWeek 10Lesson 10Her Legacy• Exploration of Isabella's enduring legacy in Spain and beyond • Analysis of Isabella's contributions to the unification and consolidation of Spain • Discussion of Isabella's reputation and portrayal in historical memory • Examination of the lasting impact of Isabella's reign on politics, culture, and society
Historical Understanding: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the life, reign, and significance of Isabella of Castile within the broader context of Spanish and European history. Critical Analysis: Develop critical thinking skills by analyzing primary sources, secondary literature, and historical interpretations related to Isabella's reign and its impact on society, politics, and culture. Contextualization: Place Isabella's reign within its historical, political, social, and cultural context, including understanding the complexities of late 15th-century Spain and Europe. Leadership and Governance: Evaluate Isabella's leadership qualities, decision-making processes, and governance strategies in managing the affairs of Castile and its territories. Power Dynamics: Explore the power dynamics within the Castilian court, including Isabella's interactions with nobles, clergy, and other key figures, and how these dynamics influenced her reign. Religious and Political Transformations: Understand the religious and political transformations of Isabella's reign, including her role in the Reconquista, the Spanish Inquisition, and the exploration and colonization of the Americas.
Homework Offered
Assessments Offered
Participation in class discussions will be a significant component of the assessment for this course. Active engagement in discussions demonstrates students' understanding of the material, critical thinking skills, and ability to articulate historical arguments effectively. Throughout the semester, students will be encouraged to contribute to class discussions by sharing insights, asking questions, and engaging with their peers' ideas.Grades Offered
This course aims to explore the life and reign of Isabella I of Castile, a significant historical figure whose impact resonates through the annals of history. Throughout the ten weeks of study, students will delve into various aspects of Isabella's life, including her early years, marriage, reign, and legacy. While the course content is primarily historical in nature, it's essential to note that some topics may touch upon sensitive themes, such as war, politics, and religious conflict. Additionally, discussions may include references to violence, oppression, and societal norms of the time. As parents or guardians, I encourage you to engage with your child's learning journey, offering support and guidance as they navigate complex historical narratives. You may wish to discuss the significance of Isabella's actions within the context of her period, emphasizing critical thinking and empathy in understanding historical figures and events. Should you have any concerns about the course content or its potential impact on your child, please don't hesitate to reach out to me for clarification and assistance.
Primary sources: excerpts from Isabella's letters, royal decrees, and contemporary accounts Secondary source: "Isabella of Castile: The First Renaissance Queen" by Nancy Rubin Stuart "The Spanish Inquisition: An Anthology of Sources" edited by Lu Ann Homza.
Average rating:4.6Number of reviews:(8)
Hi! 👋 I'm Miss Caitlyn and I love history! I received my Master's degree in history, and currently teach college-level US history courses. Before that, I taught in a school for two years, where I helped kids learn cool stuff about the past. For...
Group Class
$20
weekly or $200 for 10 classes1x per week, 10 weeks
55 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 12-16
2-10 learners per class
