The tensions and conflicts in the Middle East are so often on our TV screens at the moment - and of course the situation is far from new, with roots that stretch back far into history. 

Join Simon for this special 12-week course exploring the history of the Middle East from 1917 through to the early C21, through periods of crisis, conflict and change.  From the closing months of the First World War, through the period of the British Mandate and the involvement of the United Nations and on to the creation of the State of Israel in the mid-C20, we will trace the tides and currents of history.  We will go on to explore both the further conflicts, and the attempts at finding peaceful resolutions to those conflicts, through the 1950s up until 2012. 

Based on the International GCSE syllabus, this course will draw on source documents and first-hand accounts from the periods in question to help us try to navigate the hugely complex issues at stake. 

Course information & price

The cost of this solo term will be £180, for twelve 90-minute classes (aligning with our standard £15 per session rate) and follows the structure of a typical GCSE history module, but is tailored for an adult audience. Sessions will include a mixture of lecture-style content and group discussions. And the best part? No exams! This course is designed to be educational, enriching, and above all, enjoyable.

Zoom & Recordings

All sessions will take place via Zoom. Please keep the Zoom code safe and do not share it to any external sources.

The group size will be limited but don’t worry if you miss a live session or wish to watch anything back for clarification at a later time. Each session will be recorded to allow you to play back a recording in your own time. We will aim to send recording links out via email within 48 hours after each live session. All sessions will be viewable for at least 14 days afterwards.

Course texts

Please note, there is no requirement to purchase text books or to ‘do homework’, however Simon will sometimes recommend optional further reading or study between classes for those who want to delve deeper.

Disclaimer & consent to share information

This course is primarily a historical exploration. While we will examine the factors contributing to the current situation in the region, it is not intended as a forum for political debate on ongoing conflicts. As with all courses offered through the WI Learning Hub, we are committed to providing a fair, balanced, and non-judgemental learning environment.

By signing up for the course, you consent to being recorded during each session. The recordings will be made available to course participants for a limited time, allowing you to catch up on missed sessions or re-watch classes as needed.

By enrolling in this course, you also agree to have your name and email address shared with Simon, who will use this information to send you relevant handouts and updates as needed. Please rest assured that no other personal details will be shared.

Information documents including Zoom log in details will be included at the bottom of your confirmation email after you have registered.

(If you do not receive a confirmation email please check your spam/junk email boxes or sign into the 'Your Account' section of our website to retrieve all of your booking and course information)