Course overview

Course intent

In this online lecture we will consider the lives of the Austrian Emperor Franz Joseph and his wife, Empress Elizabeth.

What will I learn?

Emperor Franz Joseph succeeded to the Austrian throne in 1848, aged just eighteen. He died in 1916 after one of the longest reigns in European history. Despite some successes, Franz Joseph’s reign saw the decline of the once powerful Habsburg Empire. On 24 April 1854, Franz Joseph married his cousin, the beautiful but wayward Elizabeth of Bavaria. Franz Joseph adored his wife and their marriage survived various tragedies including the death of their eldest child and the suicide of their only son, Crown Prince Rudolf. Franz Joseph, who lived on to lead Austria into the First World War, was devastated by Empress Elizabeth’s assassination, at Geneva, in 1898.

Who is this cho had the right uourse for? Is there anything I need to know before joining?

This lecture is suitable for everyone.

As our lectures are taught in English, please contact us if you have any concerns about your level of English.

What do I need to bring to the first class? Will there be any extra costs?

We recommend bringing paper and pen so you can make notes.

This lecture will be delivered through an online session using Zoom. To fully participate in this lecture you will need: An email address.

A reliable internet connection.

A computer/laptop/tablet with a fully updated browser. Microphone and webcam.

Once enrolled, you will receive detailed instructions for taking part online.

What can I do when I finish the course?

We offer a wide range of courses on aspects of history, as well as other Humanities subjects that may be of interest to further your knowledge

Additional Information

We welcome learners with additional needs and disabilities. When you enrol, please let us know if you would like to discuss your extra support needs with a member of the Supported Learning Team who will then contact you as soon as possible. If you are enrolling within 10 days of the course start date, we may not be able to contact you before your first class.

We value and support equality, diversity and inclusion by promoting fairness and respect at all times.

How to enrol

Our courses are for adult learners aged 19 or over. If you are under 19, please call 0300 200 1044.

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