Classes

In 1850, the once great Ottoman Empire was in a state of advanced decline. Yet, the Ottomans maintained control over much of the Middle East with its diverse range of ethnic groups. The Turks managed to maintain a balance between Muslims, Christians and Jews. Attempts to modernise the Empire were restricted by its economic weakness. The trend continued up to WW1. By then, the former territory of Egypt was effectively under British control. The entry of the Ottoman Empire into the war accelerated its final collapse. It was during this war that the great imperial powers of Britain and France planned to fill the post-war political vacuum left after the departure of Ottoman forces. In 1916, this planning took shape with Sykes-Picot Agreement. Another key development came in 1917 with the Balfour Declaration which committed Britain the support the establishment of a Jewish homeland in Palestine. These developments coincided with the Arab Revolt which had begun in 1916.

In the post-war period, a new Middle East emerged with the formation of the states that make up the present region. These included the British influenced states of Iraq and Transjordan. The French were the dominant influence in Lebanon and Syria. These years would see the establishment of a secular state in Turkey and the victory of the House of Saud in the struggle for control over the Arabian Peninsula. In Palestine, these years were a time of growing community tension and the circumstances that led to the creation of Israel in 1948.

This course offers an introduction to family history in Ireland. It acquaints learners with the methods and sources for conducting effective Irish family history research. It places a strong emphasis on examining online Irish genealogical sources, particularly those sources dating to the 19th and early 20th centuries. These include census records, civil records, church records and land records. In addition to these categories of source, some attention will be given to estate records, cemeteries, professional records, and extant Early Modern sources. Students will be given the opportunity to locate and critically analyse and evaluate different types of sources. Learners will receive guidance enabling them to conduct their own Irish family history research projects, culminating in the (optional) creation of research outputs (e.g. family trees, presentations on a particular ancestor, genealogical problem solving etc). This guidance will include both practical tips and information about the nature of genealogical sources in Ireland and the historical background to their creation. The course is delivered through contiguous lectures and seminars. The latter involve active learning, including both individual and collaborative learning exercises, often using online databases. The course will be ideal for anyone who wants to get involved in researching their own family’s history using sources available online. It will also benefit anyone who wants to understand how family historians use sources to interpret aspects of the past

Learn to use a sewing machine, read a commercial pattern and make your own clothes

Small group knitting classes for all abilities. Terms run for six weeks with classes running 1 1/2 hours each week, cost €150.  Individual attention to students teaching techniques, explaining  knitting terms or resolving problems in patterns. email thekinttingclass@gmail.com

A selection of talks on a variety of subjects – historical, art appreciation, wildlife, Zen, politics, poetry appreciation, health, mapping, wills. Followed by informal discussion, chat and cup of coffee.

This course will trace over 100 years of the development of Western art though the various avant-garde movements that broke all the traditional rules of art creating what we call Modern Art. It is arguable that this change was made possible in many ways by the Impressionists, whose tranquil pleasant paintings hide a significant rebellion shook the art world forever. Starting in the 1850s and finishing in the 1950s, this course will explore a fascinating era where the endless possibilities of art were revealed to artists who created a greater variety of artistic expression than had been seen before. Important new styles that resulted in not just new ways to produce and look at art but also new ideas about the world. The artworks will be placed within the historical context with many artists responding to great societal changes from world wars or modern inventions like television. Different influential theoretical frameworks will be considered including feminism and psychoanalysis. All the important ‘isms’ will be discussed such as Cubism, Futurism and Abstract Expressionism. The last class will be a visit to the National Gallery of Ireland to follow the advent of Modernism through this impressive collection.

Effective, low impact standing and chair-based exercises suitable for older people. Improve your fitness, balance, strength and coordination with enjoyable exercises all set to a variety of music.

Light fun dance workout for seniors. Move your body to great american music and do easy moves. Great for flexibility, co-ordination and strength. Come to a class and feel the burn!! No experience necessary. Pay weekly.

Learn to use a sewing machine, read a commercial pattern and make your own clothes

Chaney Farrell Academy – Irish dancing classes held on Thursdays at 4pm for beginner/ improver level. Children are prepared for CLRG Grade Exams. New pupils are welcome. Online registration www.irishdancingclasses.ie