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Gerry Cleary, PhD

Fee £100.00 (concession rate £80.00) - fee will amend when you select the appropriate fee rate below.

Autumn 2026 

10 weekly sessions on Mondays 7.00 pm to 9.00 pm, starting 28 September  

Most counties in Ireland still have their fair share of country houses popularly known as "Big Houses". They have played a key role in Irish History since the 12th century Norman conquest.  But, what are their origins and why did they play such an important role in Ireland's political, cultural and artistic evolution? The predecessors of our "big houses" were fortified dwellings and strong castles. From the early 17th Century they evolved into physical symbols of the new English order in post-Gaelic Ireland.  As the need for defensive fortifications declined by the early 18th century many "big houses" were transformed or rebuilt into architectural masterpieces from which the Protestant Irish Ascendancy could wield power over the local population. Not all big houses were the preserve of the privileged gentry. Many of the new Industrial Revolution merchant princes (especially in Ulster) mimicked their culture with relish. This is perhaps best exemplified by the big "Linen Houses" of the Lagan Valley.  By the start of the 20th century, the importance and influence of the big houses had declined. This course analyses the reasons for their decline. It also traces the history and splendour of the big houses and tries to explain why many have survived for so long.

This class will take place on QUB campus 

Support Requirements

If as a result of your disability you have support requirements, please complete a support needs form and return it 3 weeks before your class commences. The form is available to download here under the Facilities and Support for Disabled Students section or contact the office on 90 973323.

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