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This course introduces students to the concepts of culture, civilisation and intercultural communication, highlighting their importance for understanding the English-speaking world. It focuses on the United Kingdom, exploring its history, geography, economy, political system and social organisation, alongside key aspects of its cultural life. These themes provide a basis for examining the United Kingdom’s cultural diversity and the relationship between historical developments and contemporary society. The course aims to develop students’ critical understanding of British society and culture while fostering intercultural awareness.

The objectives of the course are for students to:

• understand the concepts of culture, civilisation and intercultural communication and their relevance to the study of the English-speaking world;

• become familiar with key aspects of the United Kingdom’s history, geography, economy, politics and society;

• broaden their knowledge and cultural points of reference concerning the United Kingdom’s cultural life and diversity;

• recognise connections between historical developments and contemporary social and cultural realities;

• develop a critical understanding of British society and culture while enhancing their intercultural awareness

Week 1: Introduction to culture and civilisation: definitions, distinctions and examples.

Week 2: Fundamental principles of intercultural communication: perceptions, stereotypes and cultural awareness.

Week 3: Historical and geographical overview of the United Kingdom: key developments in its formation.

Week 4: England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland: relationships, distinct identities, and linguistic and cultural diversity.

Week 5: The political system of the United Kingdom: the monarchy, Parliament, government and devolution.

Week 6: Institutions and society in the United Kingdom: education, healthcare, religion and the media.

Week 7: Traditions, customs and celebrations: historical origins and contemporary expressions.

Week 8: Symbols and cultural representations of the United Kingdom: national narratives, stereotypes and popular culture.

Week 9: Everyday life and social relations: work, leisure, social class and communication practices.

Week 10: Migration, multiculturalism and identity formation: colonial legacies, inclusion and belonging.

Week 11: Student presentations of integrative assignments, followed by discussion.

Week 12: Student presentations of integrative assignments, followed by discussion.

Week 13: Synthesis and critical review of course content, feedback on student presentations and final reflection.

Throughout the course, examples of culturally specific terms and references connect the study of British society and culture with translation and interpreting practice.

• Karras, I. (2020). The Culture and Communication Interface. Αθήνα: Εκδόσεις Δίαυλος
• Oakland, J. (2011). British Civilization: An Introduction. London: Routledge
• Extra material in the form of articles etc is provide in open eclass

The course is taught through interactive lectures. It involves the active participation of students in class discussion and activities. Ample opportunity for reflection is also given through cooperative learning activities. Students have the opportunity to sit in lectures delivered by experts in the field (and Erasmus+ visiting professors) on topics related to the course.

PPT, short videos, interactive activities, polls and quizzes.

Two required assignments:

a) Individual written assignment (50% of the total course grade)

b) Oral group presentation (50% of the total course grade)

There are specifically-defined evaluation criteria given and are accessible to students on open e-class along with the rubrics of their assignment.