This course applies the basic concepts in comparative politics to the political systems of Europe. We will cover theories of transitions to democracy, formation and development of the nation-state, political institutions and their effects, parties and party systems and elections and electoral behaviour. We will use these theories to gain a better understanding of politics in Europe. We will also address some of the major challenges that Europe and the EU have recently faced such as the eurozone crisis, Brexit, the rise of populism and extreme right parties and the challenges of immigration and incorporation of minorities. The goal is for students to become familiar with the politics and governments of contemporary Europe through the lens of current and classic themes in comparative politics.