HUMANITIES I

HUMANITIES I

SPRING 2001

King Menkaure (also known as Mycerinus) and his Queen (probably Kha-merer- nebty II). From Giza, Menkaure Temple; Dynasty 4, 2548-2530 B.C.; Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, MA.

COURSE DESCRIPTION

A chronological interdisciplinary survey designed to strengthen the student’s fundamental grasp of human values through the study of humanity’s ideas, discoveries, and creative achievements. Areas of consideration will include art, literature, and philosophy. This course begins with the pre-history of human beings and continues through the medieval period. No prerequisite.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

This course has two main objectives. The first is to introduce the student to the humanities through an in-depth examination of the influence of the classical and Judeo-Christian traditions on the modern West. The second is to improve the student’s ability to think critically, write clearly, and speak persuasively. Critical thinking about the past is essential to understanding the present.

By the end of the course, each student will demonstrate progress in the following course objectives:

Students differentiate between world cultures and between various historical/cultural eras.
Students display basic knowledge of major world religions and philosophies.
Students display basic knowledge of major world events and developments during the modern period.
Students develop an appreciation for the value of the arts and sciences within society and civilization.
Students interpret the perspectives of the disciplines within the broader, systematic context of the humanities.
Students display a basic geographical understanding of the world.
Students demonstrate a basic analysis of primary source materials and the ability to communicate that analysis.
Students make a more extensive connection with at least one era, aspect, artifact, or figure from our modern past.

ASSESSMENT TECHNIQUES

The usual method of teaching will be through lectures and class discussions. Visual and audio resources will be used to supplement lectures. In addition to attending class, reading the required readings, and participating in class discussions, students are required to complete five unit exams, two analysis papers, and one source report (SR).

EXAMS: The unit exams (at the conclusion of each unit) are designed to measure students’ knowledge of specific cultures and their mastery of certain periods of time. The final exam is not cumulative; instead, it covers the last unit. For the first unit, there is a short quiz in lieu of an exam.

PAPERS: Students will complete two analysis papers. The first, due Apr. 2, will analyze either of the two films we will be watching in class (The Last Temptation of Christ or Gladiator). The second, due Apr. 27, will review a classic text. I have attached a list of suggested books. Students must either choose from this list, or suggest their own alternative. All choices must be submitted in writing and approved by the professor (me).

Papers will be typed, double-spaced, with 1" margins. Both papers should be 4-5 pages long. These are not meant to be summaries; they should critically analyze the work in question. Unexcused late work will be penalized 10% per day. All essays are due at the beginning of the class period. Further instructions for both papers will be provided in class.

SRs: Finally, students will submit three source reports (SRs), 1 1/2 –2 pages long, to demonstrate their capacity to analyze primary source materials. These materials, their location, and due dates will be discussed in class.

STANDARDS OF ACHIEVEMENT

All student work will be judged according to the following academic criteria: