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Gerry Cleary, PhD 

Fee £75.00 (concession rate £60.00) - fee will amend when you select the appropriate fee rate below.

Autumn 2026 

10 weekly sessions on Wednesdays, 10.45 am to 12.15 pm, starting 30 September 

Most counties in Ireland 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 17th century, they evolved into physical symbols of the new English order in post-Gaelic Ireland.  As the need for fortifications declined by the 18th century, many big houses were rebuilt or transformed into architectural masterpieces from which the Protestant Irish Ascendancy wielded power over the local population. 
Not all big houses were the preserve of the privileged gentry. Many new Industrial Revolution merchant princes (especially in Ulster) mimicked their culture with relish. This is perhaps best exemplified by the "Linen Houses" of the Lagan Valley. 
By the start of the 20th century, the importance and influence of the big houses had begun to decline. This course analyses the reasons for this and attempts to explain why so many have survived for so long. 

No class on Wednesday 21 October 

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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