Course Title: Napoleon and the Era of the French Empire

Course Description: This course examines the life, career, and impact of Napoleon Bonaparte
on France and Europe during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Students will explore
Napoleon's rise to power, military campaigns, domestic policies, and the consequences of his
rule. Through a combination of lectures, readings, discussions, and multimedia resources,
participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the Napoleonic era and its lasting
influence on European history.

Week 1-2: Introduction to the French Revolution and Rise of Napoleon

 Overview of the French Revolution

 Napoleon's early life and military career
 The coup of 18 Brumaire and the establishment of the Consulate

Week 3-4: The Napoleonic Code and Domestic Policies

 Creation and implementation of the Napoleonic Code

 Administrative and legal reforms
 Education and public works during the French Empire

Week 5-6: Napoleonic Wars: Part I

 The Italian and Egyptian campaigns

 Battle of Austerlitz and the War of the Third Coalition
 The Treaty of Tilsit and the Continental System

Week 7-8: The Peninsular War and Invasion of Russia

 The Spanish resistance and the Peninsula Campaign

 The Russian Campaign and the Retreat from Moscow
 The impact of the Russian campaign on Napoleon's empire

Week 9-10: The Fall of Napoleon and the Hundred Days

 Abdication and exile to Elba

 The return to power and the Hundred Days
 The Battle of Waterloo and the final exile to Saint Helena

Week 11-12: Legacy of Napoleon

 Assessment of Napoleon's achievements and failures

 The Congress of Vienna and the restoration of monarchies
 The impact of Napoleonic ideas on nationalism and modern Europe

Assessment:
 1. Midterm Exam (30%)
2. Research Paper on a specific aspect of the Napoleonic era (30%)
3. Class Participation and Discussions (15%)
4. Final Exam (25%)

Required Readings:

1. "Napoleon: A Life" by Andrew Roberts

2. "Napoleon the Great" by Andrew Roberts
3. "The Napoleonic Wars: A Very Short Introduction" by Mike Rapport

Note: This syllabus is a general outline and can be adjusted based on the specific interests and
needs of the students and the instructor's preferences. It is recommended for students to have a
basic understanding of European history and the French Revolution before enrolling in this
course.