French and Mediaeval History

French and Mediaeval History is a combination that rewards close examination. France is one of the great medieval civilisations: the birthplace of Gothic architecture, the crucible of chivalric culture, the setting for the Crusades, and the political rival of England for centuries of dynastic conflict. Studying French language and literature alongside the history of the medieval period allows you to read primary sources in the original, to trace the literary and historical record of a civilisation at close quarters, and to develop an understanding of France that is genuinely rooted in its own past.

At the University of St Andrews, this four-year MA (Hons) programme develops your French language and communication skills to a high level of proficiency, while also building your knowledge of French and Francophone literature and culture. The medieval history strand takes you through the major themes, events and debates of the period from the fall of Rome to the fifteenth century, developing your ability to analyse primary sources, construct historical arguments and engage with scholarly debate. The degree includes a year abroad, which gives you the opportunity to study or work in a French-speaking environment, deepening your linguistic fluency and your understanding of contemporary Francophone culture as well as its historical foundations.

The combination of a modern European language and a historical discipline is particularly strong preparation for careers that require both cultural understanding and analytical rigour. Graduates of French and history combinations move into careers in translation, publishing, the diplomatic service, heritage management, the civil service, journalism, law and education. Many go on to postgraduate study in French literature, medieval history, European studies or a related field, where the combination of language skills and historical training is highly valued.