Guide to Introduction to Humanities

Transcription

1 Guide to Introduction to Humanities Matthew Nickerson Southern Utah University

2 N O T T O B E D U P L I C A T E D S O U T H E R N U T A H U N I V E R S I T Y C E D A R C I T Y, U T

3 Humanities 1010: Answering the Terrible Question Basic Requirements Attend 42 classes and complete a class journal, 12 quizzes, a midterm and a final. The course carries 3 semester hours of SUU credit. Text The Humanities in Western Culture, Lamm (Fourth Edition, 1996) Brown and Benchmark. Grades 25% Journal 25% Average Reading Quiz score 25% Midterm 25% Final Reading Reading assignments listed in the syllabus should be read in preparation for the day under which they are listed. There will be a Reading Quiz every Wednesday that will cover material from the reading assignments. Always read the Overview in the syllabus before beginning your reading assignment. Study questions in the syllabus will give you an idea of the type of information and questions that will be found in the quizzes and exams. Required readings not in the text book and many wonderful resources can be found at your local library or on the World Wide Web. About the Instructor Matthew Nickerson brings a variety of skills and talents to the classroom. He holds post secondary degrees in biochemistry, library science and theater arts. After receiving his MFA in Acting Performance Mr. Nickerson worked professionally with the Denver Center Theatre Company and the Creede Repertory Theater. Before returning to academia Prof. Nickerson worked for Cobe Laboratories in Arvada, Colorado, developing new designs for heart/lung machines. He is currently Special Collections Librarian at the Gerald R. Sherratt Library. Office: LI 303F Phone: nickerson@suu.edu Students with disabilities If you have a disability which may impair your ability to successfully complete this course, please let Student Support Services know during the first week fo class. Students with medical, psychological, learning or other disabilities desiring academic adjustments, accommodations, or auxiliary aids will need to contact Student Support Services in room 205K, Sharwin Smith Center or phone Student Support Services determines eligibility for and authorizes the provision of these services and aids. 3

4 HU 1010 Introduction to Western Culture Answering the Terrible Question Suggested Schedule 1. Aug 24: Introduction 2. Aug 26: Why the Humanities? 3. Aug 29: Early Mesopotamia 4. Aug 31: Ancient Egypt [Quiz 1] 5. Sep 2: Minoans and Mycenaeans Sep 5: LABOR DAY 6. Sep 7: Homer and The Odyssey 7. Sep 9: Early Greece [Quiz 2] 8. Sep 12: The Golden Age [Journal 1] 9. Sep 14: Political Reformers 10 Sep 16: Greek Drama, [Quiz 3] 11. Sep 19: Greek Philosophy and the Presocratics 12. Sep 21: Socrates and Plato [Quiz 4] 13. Sep 23: Aristotle 14. Sep 26: Greek Art and Architecture 15. Sep 28: The Roman Republic [Quiz 5] [Journal 2] 16. Sep 30: The Roman Empire 17. Oct 3: The Art and Architecture of Rome 18. Oct 5: Judaism and the Rise of Christianity [Quiz 6] 19. Oct 7: The Rise of Islam Oct 10: STUDY Oct 12: MIDTERM 20. Oct 14 : St. Augustine Oct 17-18: FALL BREAK 21. Oct 19: The Early Middle Ages [Quiz 7] 22. Oct 21: The Late Middle Ages 23. Oct 24: Feudalism and Courtly Love 24. Oct 26: Gothic Cathedrals [Journal 3] 25. Oct 28: Delaying the Renaissance [Quiz 8] 26. Oct 31: The Reformation 27. Nov. 2: Discovery and Invention [Quiz 9] 28. Nov. 4: Capitalism and the Italian Renaissance 29. Nov 7: Renaissance Art and Architecture 30. Nov 9: William Shakespeare [Quiz 10] 31. Nov 11: 17th Century Paradigm Shift [Journal 4] 32. Nov 14: 17th Century Paradigm Shift (continued) 33. Nov 16: Baroque Art [Quiz 11] 34. Nov 18: Music Basics 4

5 35. Nov 21: Classical Music Nov 23-25: THANKSGIVING RECESS 36. Nov 28: Enlightenment and Natural Law [Quiz 12] 37. Nov 30: Romanticism 38. Dec 2: Darwin and Freud [Journal 5] 39. Dec 5: The 20th Century Dec 7: STUDY FINAL Dec IMPORTANT: In order to view the video lectures you will need use the Internet Explorer browser. You should be able to view the streaming video in any campus student lab. If all else fails contact Prof. Nickerson. ONLINE More information is available through the online syllabus found in Lesson 1. 5

6 HU 1010 Introduction to Western Culture Answering the Terrible Question 1: Introduction to the class 6

7 2: What are the humanities? Cultural Literacy and the Terrible Question * "An Introduction to Integrated Humanities," Text pp.1-6 * "The Parable of the Cave," Text pp Overview: Read the Prologue (pp.1-6) carefully. Before we embark on our study of the Cultural Roots of Western Civilization it is important to know why we should, and what profit can come to us for doing so. Literature, painting, music, sculpture, architecture and philosophy add quality to life and enliven and enrich that part of us that is distinctly human. Obviously in a single quarter and with a single text it is impossible to even approach a semblance of an in-depth understanding or expertise in any of these areas. Our focus will be to touch upon some of the finest examples created over the past 4000 years or so, look at how these masterpieces have shaped our culture and effected our lives and to begin a lifelong appreciation of these arts. The Culture-Epoch Theory will give you some idea for how the text is organized. There are many theories for identifying or organizing the growth and demise of world civilizations and this is just one of them. This theory is as good as most and better than some. Throughout the quarter we will return to the discussion outlined in the section "A Common Basis for Understanding the Arts." The Terrible Question lies at the heart of most everything we will discuss throughout the course. Think about it. Ask yourself the Terrible Question. Your thoughts, your ideas, your questions, and your answers to the Terrible Question should be broadened and enriched as we study the Cultural Roots of the West. _ 7

8 3: Sumerians and Babylonians * Chapter 1 "Mesopotamia," Text pp.9-27 Overview: This chapter will offer a good introduction to ancient history and the first great civilizations in Mesopotamia. Study the map on p.11 (Map 1.1) and be sure that you can identify the Fertile Crescent on a larger map of Asia or the World. Know the significance of this region and how it helped to shape the ancient cultures from 8000 BC down through the Persian Empire. Read the section "The Epic of Gilgamesh" and the excerpt immediately following (p.15-17). Note this most ancient of tales is addressing the Terrible Question as will many more throughout this quarter. What single factor is credited with giving the opportunity to the ancient Mesopotamian cultures to develop such inventions as pottery, weaving, housing, the calendar and mathematics? What is cuneiform? Where is the Fertile Crescent? What is Zoroastrianism and why is it important in the development of Western culture? Do you see any elements of Zoroastrianism in Christianity? In Judaism? in Islam? Which Mesopotamian empires can be identified with historical accounts contained in the Old Testament? _ 8

9 4: Egypt * Chapter 2 "Egypt," Text pp Overview: The Egyptian Empire lasted almost 2000 years and is worth knowing something about. We will mention it occasionally as the course progresses as this great civilization crosses paths with the two cultures most responsible for forming Western Culture as we know it today: the Greeks and the Hebrews. Study Map 2.1 (p. 29) and identify the Nile Valley on a map of the Mediterranean and/or the eastern hemisphere. Why is Upper Egypt "down" or "below" Lower Egypt on a map? What is a theocracy? Can you identify artistic conventions followed by Egyptian artists in their statues and paintings? How did racism affect the Egyptian society? What does mummification tell you about the Egyptian answer to the TQ? _ 9

10 5: The Minoans and Mycenaeans * Chapter 3 "The Aegean Heritage," Text pp Overview: Because Greek art, politics and philosophy play such a huge part in the development of 20th Century America it is vital to understand their beginnings. In your reading pay attention to the major differences between the Minoan and Mycenaean civilizations. As we study the Golden Age of Greece it will be interesting to note in what way each of these earlier cultures contributed to one of the greatest episodes in all Western history Find the Greek Peloponnesus on a map of the Mediterranean and/or the eastern hemisphere. What is a matriarchy? How did Minoans and the Mycenaeans differ in their attitudes toward: war, the gods, women, and the arts. Be able to identify the island of Crete on a map and understand its geographical relationship to Egypt, Greece, Italy, Mesopotamia and the Levant. (See Syllabus pp.43, 44) What natural disaster is thought to have caused the end of the Minoans? What connections exist between the Mycenaen civilization and the great epic poems by Homer? _ 10

11 6: Homer and the Odyssey * Chapter IX from The Odyssey, Homer (available through the Internet, see the On-line Syllabus) Overview: The Odyssey is considered by many scholars to be the greatest work in Western literature. It is one of only a handful of works considered among the great epics of humankind. Why does Odysseus visit the island of the Cyclops? Why are Odysseus and his men imprisoned? How do they escape? After returning to his ship and setting sail how does Odysseus get into further trouble before finally escaping from the Cyclops? _ 11

12 7: Early Greece * Chapter 4 "Early Greece: Preparation for the Good Life," pp Overview: Study the map on p.53 (Map 3.1). It is important to have a clear picture of the geographical lay-out of mainland Greece and the surrounding areas. On the surface it may be difficult to see how much of the Greek religion is still with us today. Certainly we do not see many peoples or cultures in the west worshiping Zeus or seeking prophetic help from oracles. The impression is much deeper and lies in the humanistic nature of the Greek religion and their pantheon of gods. Western democracy traces its roots directly to the Greeks and the representative government developed by the great reformers: Draco, Solon, Pisastratos and Kleisthenes. Find the following on the map of Greater Greece on p.43: the Peloponnesus, Ionian Coast, Macedonia, Italy, Sicily, Crete, the Aegean Sea, the Adriatic Sea, Asia Minor, Athens, Delphi, Sparta, and Troy. Study the chart in Box 4.1 (p.56-57) and become familiar with the main gods in the Greek pantheon. Our knowledge of early Greece (Archaic Period) comes from what two Greek writers? What part did religious practice and the priestly class play in the development of early Greece? What important factors lead to the expanded economy and leisure time making possible the Greek advances in education, philosophy and politics? What is hubris? Chart the changes and innovations made by each of the great reformers.? _ 12

13 8: Hellenic Greece ** 'The Rise of Athens' and 'Greek Thought' from Chapter 4 "Early Greece: Preparation for the Good Life," pp Most familiar to 20th Century minds may the scientific contribution made by the likes of Thales and Pythagoras during this same era. The great philosophers of Greece actually invented scientific and philosophical speculation. Many of the marvels of modern science were discovered and perfected by men and women seeking answers to the same questions the Greeks struggled with 2500 years earlier. Who was Herodotos? How did the battle of Marathon change the future of Greece and the balance of power in the Mediterranean? Why do Greeks and the West in general still celebrate the defeat of the Greek army at Thermopylai? Greek thought and science can be described as humanistic and naturalistic. What do those two terms mean? _ 13

14 9, 10: Greek Tragedy * Read Oedipus Rex (Oedipus the King) * The Theatre: A Greek Invention, pp Overview: The Golden Age was characterized by individual freedom and a passion for excellence two traits still inherent in Western culture. Drama was a very important part of their culture. Aeschylus, Sophocles, Euripides and Aristophanes are four of the greatest playwrights in all of Western history and all lived during this time. You should be familiar with the titles of their major works and know something about their contributions to Greek society and to western culture in general. What is arete and why was it significant during the Golden Age of Greece? In the fictional comedy Lysistrata how did the women of Athens end the Peloponnesian War? What did Protagoras mean by his dictum "man is the measure of all things?" Who was Pericles and what great contributions did he make in the development of ancient Greece? Know at least one play written by each of the great Greek tragedians Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides. _ 14

15 11, 12: Greek Philosophy and the Pre-Socratics ** 'Greek Thought' from Chapter 4 "Early Greece: Preparation for the Good Life," pp Overview: The death of Socrates marks the end of the Golden Age. Read his final words to the Athenian court which sentenced him to death as recorded by his student Plato (final paragraph of the Summary, p.79) We have no writings of Socrates so how do we know what he thought or how he taught? What is the Socratic Method? Who were the Ionian Philosophers? Read and study their developing answer to the Terrible Question. What did Herakleitos mean by saying "you can never step into the same river twice?" What tool did Pythagoras rely on in his search for what is real? Are their elements in the Pythagorian Order that remind you of the earlier Minoan society? _ 15

16 13: Plato ** 'Plato' from Chapter 6 "Greece: From Hellenic to Hellenistic World," pp * The Republic, Book VII, Allegory of the Cave, pp Overview: One of the distinguishing features of any civilization is how the people describe and identify "reality" (see The Cultural-Epoch, Text, p.3). Plato's ideas about what is real is perhaps the most important contribution ever made to Western philosophy. Read the section entitled "The Republic" carefully and then read the excerpt at the end of this chapter, pp (Book VII, Allegory of the Cave.) How did Athenian politics strive to balance the value of individuality and the welfare of the state? Who were the sophists and what did they teach? According to Plato what is real? How did the dualism of Plato's reality manifest itself later in Christianity? What is the doctrine of ethos? What is catharsis? _ 16

17 14: Aristotle ** 'Aristotle ' and 'Greek Philosophic Legacy' from Chapter 6 "Greece: From Hellenic to Hellenistic," Text pp * Aristotle s Poetics, p.91. Overview: Aristotle was a student of Plato and world-class philosopher in his own right. Like many good students he listened and learned from his teacher and then continued on forming his own ideas and making his own discoveries. His "reality" is significantly different from that of Plato s and is also very important in the history of the west. How Plato and Aristotle differ in their descriptions and understanding of reality is of supreme importance. This chapter is well worth reading several times. A familiarity with the basic tenants of these two philosophers is extremely valuable and worth a little extra effort. In fact, if that is all you take away from this course you could count your time well-spent and consider yourself a successful student. According to Aristotle what is real? How did Aristotle deal with the process of change? According to Aristotle what is the basis of a democratic state? In pursuing the Terrible Question how did Aristotle define "God?" How would you describe the Greek idea of the Golden Mean? _ 17

18 15: Greek Art and Architecture * Chapter 7 "The Greek Arts," Text pp Overview: From your reading identify the four Periods of Greek Art and a basic art form or trait indicative of each era. The pursuit of the ideal is very important as described earlier in the discussion of the Golden Age and the Greek concept of arete. Realism was sacrificed for idealism as works portrayed people and gods not as they were but as they should be. The Classical Period is the high point of Greek culture and the works of their visual artists, musicians and poets matched the philosophic accomplishments of Socrates, Plato and Aristotle. This chapter boasts many fine photographs of Greek masterpieces. Study them and try to familiarize yourself with the look and style of Greek art. Greek architecture is in evidence all around us. Most of the prominent and important buildings in our nation's capital follow the Greek tradition. Familiarize yourself with the terminology used in Greek architecture p.106. Sappho is the first woman of significance mentioned by name in the text. After the decline of the Minoan Empire women did not enjoy an equal status in society so they are not found among the movers and shakers of Greece. Make sure to read the translations of some of her poetry on p.113. Trace the four major periods in Greek artistic development. Which of the arts did the Greeks consider their most important? The sculpture of Anavyssos Kouros. (p.99) is similar to popular Egyptian designs of 2000 years earlier (Mycernius, p.32). Can you see any important differences? Study the photographs of pottery and trace its development from archaic to classic. Compare the statue of Aphrodite on p.114 with the depiction of Venus on p.287 painted 1500 years later. Is their a Greek influence? 18

19 What is the difference between the Doric, Ionic and Corinthian architectural styles? Can you identify them in the photographs in the text? 19

20 16: The Roman Republic * Roman Legends and Virtues, and The Republic, from Chapter 8 "A Thousand Years of Rome," Text pp Overview: The similarities and differences between the Greek and Roman Empires is important to understand. Note the explanations and examples of the Roman attitudes toward wealth, power, politics, law, leisure, luxury and death. The legends based on the founding of Rome are an important part of western tradition. The Aeneas legends are based partially on the early society known as the Etruscans. The development of the early Roman Republic was heavily influenced by the Greeks and their colonies in southern Italy and on Sicily. The patrician/plebeian state developed in the early 6th century is an important first step in the long process of Western democracy. Pay particular attention to the evolution and power struggles that shaped the government from the early patrician/ plebeian society until the rule of Julius Caesar. The Caesars play an important role in Roman history and in the development of the West. How do the personalities of Romulus and Remus help to describe and define the "Roman" view of life? Who were the Etruscans? How did patricians and plebians define Roman life? What innovations and characteristics gave the Roman army their power? How did Julius Caesar die? What do the idioms "to cross the Rubicon" and the die is cast mean and where did they come from? What part did sport and spectacle play in the Roman Empire? Are there similarities today in our own cultures? _ 20

21 17: The Roman Empire ** 'The Empire' from Chapter 8 "A Thousand Years of Rome," Text pp Overview: Many religions and philosophies were shared and melded as the Roman Empire grew. The Greeks, the Egyptians, the Hebrews and the Athenian philosophies of Epicurianism and Stoicism all contributed to the Roman pantheon and their ever changing religious views. The Romans preserved and embellished many of the great traditions of Greece passing them on to Europe and the Renaissance. Study the map on p.132 (Map 8.1). Gain an appreciation for the size of the Roman empire. Be able to locate important cities on a generic map of the area such as Rome, Alexandria, Carthage, Jerusalem, Constantinople and Athens. What is an oligarchy? and in the Roman world what classes were distinguished by the titles patrician and plebeian? What was the Pax Romana? What is Epicureanism? Epictetus and Marcus Arelius agreed in the great brotherhood of mankind. How did this translate into important legal codes still in existence today in the West? Sports and spectacle played an important role in the Empire (see pp ) Do you see evidence of similar forces at work in our society today? What are some of the great public projects of the Roman Empire? _ 21

22 18: The Art and Architecture of Rome * Chapter 9 "Roman Art and Architecture: The Art of Megalopolis, pp Overview: Roman architecture excelled at enclosing large space. Likenesses of these great Roman achievements can be seen in modern train stations, airports and sports arenas (both indoors and outdoors). The roads and aqueducts built by Roman engineers brought civilizing effects that were just as powerful as the art and literature of the Greeks How did Roman theater differ from that of the Greeks? Why is the city of Pompeii so important to our current understanding of the Roman culture? Where does the saying "all roads lead to Rome" come from? How was the Roman s concern for sense of identity illustrated in their sculpture? Be able to identify the Colosseum and the Pantheon. p.159.(picture 9.14, 9.17, 9.18.) Study the pictures in your text, p.156, _ 22

23 19: The Hebrews and the Rise of Christianity * Chapter 11 "The Beginnings of Christian Art," Text pp Overview: If you are unfamiliar with the basic tenants of Judaism read the overview on pp The Jews are a unique and very strong culture. They have always identified themselves as the Chosen People. In your reading take note of how this personal vision has affected not only their society but the West in general. The impact of Judeo-Christian religion and ethics on the 20th century West cannot be overstated. It lies at the heart of what we are and what we think as much as the Greek and Roman philosophies and sciences. If you are unfamiliar with the life of Jesus Christ and/or the basic tenants of Christianity read the overview on pp Also rview and understand the four unique aspects of Judaism. In the first four centuries after Christ there was little art work among Christians because of the Old Testament commandment against graven images. By the sixth century a change had occurred. Art and architecture in Christianity was used to teach and inspire a growing membership that neither had the Christian scriptures at their disposal nor could they read it if they had. What is the Edict of Milan and how did effect the Roman Empire and the Christians? What is a basilica? What is monotheism and how does it figure into Judaism, Christianity and Western culture? What is the diaspora? _ 23

24 20: St. Augustine * Chapter 12 "Building Medieval Walls," Text pp Overview: There is not much information in the text concerning St. Augustine but he is a very important figure in the history of Western culture so read what little there is with care. Augment your reading from the text with other short readings in encyclopedias or on the World Wide Web (see the On-line Syllabus.) What is the Nicene Creed and are its effects still felt today? Which Greek Philosopher had a strong influence on the ideas of Augustine especially in relation to the physical world? How did Augustine answer the question, What is real? What did his great work The City of God add to his developing answer to the TQ? _ 24

25 21: Islam * 'The Rise of Islam' from Chapter 12 "Building Medieval Walls," Text pp Overview: In light of current world politics it is more important than ever for the West to understand and appreciate Islam. In your reading seek for similarities as well as differences between Islam, Christianity and Judaism. Look carefully at the map on p.195 (Map 12.1). The combined green, yellow and purple region represent the extent of the spread of Islam in only 39 years from its humble beginning in Medina on the Arabian peninsula (find Medina on the map). The Islamic culture was one of the most advanced in the world during its hey-day certainly far beyond Europe of the same time. Their arts and sciences were quite impressive to feel there influence on the West today you need look no further than 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9: the Arabic numerals. Study the photographs and be able to identify some of the chief characteristics of Islamic architecture. Who is Muhammad? What are the Articles of Faith and Five Pillars of Faith of Islam? What is the Koran and how did Mohammed acquire it? What is the jihad? _ 25

26 22: The Middle Ages ** 'Charlemagne and the Carolingian Renaissance' from Chapter 12 "Building Medieval Walls," Text pp Overview: The Celto-Germanic Influence is the third main contributor to the modern West. The map on p.195 illustrates the wide influence of the Carolingians under the rule of Charlemagne. Much of his power and influence was due to the recognition of his rule by the Church in Rome. The story of Charlemagne is an interesting one. Be sure to read the excerpt from Beowulf (pp ). The Celto-Germanics of the Middle Ages had a unique answer to the Terrible Question. Study the map on p.234 (Map 14.1) and be able to locate major European cities on a generic map of Europe and the Mediterranean (such as Rome, Venice, Florence, Ravenna, Venice, Autun, Munich, London, Cordoba, Paris.) What was the Norse comitatus? How is a profound pessimism among the Celto-Germanic peoples illustrated by their religion and prospects for an after life? What institution was responsible for what little order existed in Europe during the Middle Ages? What changes or programs begun by Charlemagne helped to initiate the Carolingian Renaissance? _ 26

27 23: The Late Middle Ages * Chapter 13 "The Late Middle Ages: Expansion and Synthesis," Text pp Overview: The conflict between Faith and Reason which began as early as the 9th century is very significant and it stills exists today. The founding of the first universities, the rediscovery of the teachings of Aristotle and the theology of St. Thomas Aquinas are the hallmarks of the 12th and 13th centuries. What are some of the positive attributes and products of the Islamic culture assimilated by Europe following the crusades? How was Aristotle reintroduced to the West in the 13th century? How did St. Thomas Aquinas answer the old Greek question of forms vs matter? What is the "Bible in Stone"? What is Dante's answer to the Terrible Question? _ 27

28 24: Feudalism and Courtly Love ** 'Feudalism and Chivalry' from Chapter 13 "The Late Middle Ages: Expansion and Synthesis," Text pp ** Literary Selections, pp Overview: You should understand the shift from feudalism to chivalry. Read the short excerpts on p.210 and the longer selections at the end of the chapter for good literary examples of the differences. This time period also witnessed the beginning of the university something you should be interested in. What role did the Crusades play in the transition from feudalism to chivalry? How did chivalry and/or courtly love manifest itself in the Christian church? Do aspects of chivalry or courtly love remain in our culture today? Where did universities begin and what constituted the original liberal arts curriculum? _ 28

29 25: Cathedrals and Music of the High Middle Ages * Chapter 14 "The Medieval Synthesis in Art," pp * Chapter 15 "Medieval Music: Sacred and Secular," Text pp Overview: Study the pictures of Christian cathedrals all through the chapter. Look carefully at the interiors, exteriors and floor plans to get an idea of the "big picture." Gothic style cathedrals are some of the most beautiful edifices in the West and in the world. Illuminated manuscripts are another "Christian" art form that you should be familiar with (see pp.226, 228, 242). Also, study the examples of Gothic painting at the end of the chapter. Gothic art is very distinctive and a good place to begin getting a feel for the different styles of visual art that illustrate important periods of Western culture. Read the chapter on medieval music but do not be too concerned with understanding the musical notation. Obviously the best way to learn about and appreciate music is by listening NOT reading (be sure to pay attention in class when do our listening.) What is the key difference between a Romanesque and a Gothic arch? What is a "flying buttress?" What significance, if any, lies in the floor plan of these great cathedrals? Know and be able to identify the basic parts of a Gothic cathedral. _ 29

30 26: Papal Schism, the Black Plague and the 100 Years War * The Papal Schism, (available only through the Internet, see the On-line syllabus) 30

31 27: The Reformation ** The Rise of Humanism and 'The Reformation: New Ideas about God and Humankind' and The Counter- Reformation, from Chapter 16 "New Ideas and Discoveries Result from a New Way of Looking at the World," Text pp , Overview: The division of the Christian faith during the Renaissance is still very with us today. The fact that we take the many Protestant and Christian denominations so much for granted is a clear indication of how influential the Reformation was in the development of our culture today. Many theologians and philosophers contributed to the thought and passion that resulted in the Reformation and Counter reformation though Martin Luther is the name most people associate with it. Ponder the four principles of Lutheranism on p.268 and think about how they differ from the principles of the Catholic church at that time. What are "indulgences?" What are the ninety-five Theses and who wrote them? What part did Calvanism play in the early colonization of America? How did Protestantism influence the rise of capitalism? _ 31

32 28: The Renaissance * Chapter 16 "New Ideas and Discoveries Result from a New Way of Looking at the World," Text pp (Renaissance Science and Technology, Copernicus, Gutenberg, Prince Henry the Navigator) Overview: Before beginning your reading study the Renaissance time line on p.260. The Renaissance marks the end of the Middle Ages. On the time line you can see many of the remarkable achievements of this period. The Copernican Revolution went way beyond being just a new astronomical theory. Printing with movable type at first seems a simple innovation in the publishing industry but it radically changed the Western world. Prince Henry the Navigator reintroduced an Arab invention called the astrolabe that when used in coordination with his improved maps and compass made it possible for Portuguese ships to sail down the coast of Africa and ultimately around the Cape of Good Hope all the way to India. Though our study is not about names and dates some basic familiarity with the "movers and shakers" of the Renaissance, their names and contributions, is necessary in order to be culturally literate. What discovery lies a the heart of the Copernican Revolution? What was the Platonic Academy? Who founded it? And what is meant by Platonic love (what does it mean when someone says, "our relationship is purely Platonic?") As part of the great exploration of the 15th century what did Vasco de Balboa "discover" in 1513? What Italian captain, sailing on behalf of England, ran into North America resulting in England getting a piece of the pie? Who was Henry the Navigator and how did he effect early explorations of the Atlantic Ocean? _ 32

33 29: Capitalism and the Italian Renaissance ** 'The Relation of the Individual to the Group,'from Chapter 16 "New Ideas and Discoveries Result from a New Way of Looking at the World," Text pp Overview: The Renaissance is one of the most exciting periods in Western history. There were many important developments and discoveries in science, politics, religion and the arts made during this period. The rise of individualism is very important. So basic to our culture has this become that the prototypic American is still seen as "the rugged individualist." According to the text (see Characteristics of Capitalism, p.271) what is the goal of economic activity? After the golden years of the Italian Renaissance why did Italy quickly decline after 1500? For many the freedom and change of the Renaissance brought a new more terrible edge to the "Terrible Question." How, why and what? _ 33

34 30: The Renaissance, Art, Architecture and Music * Chapter 17 "Renaissance Art: A New Golden Age," Text pp Overview: This chapter is about the visual arts. The pictures are more important than the words. Read the words anyway so that you can get an historical perspective and a greater appreciation for what you are seeing in the pictures. Study all the pictures carefully. As in the previous chapter real appreciation for music cannot come from reading the chapter but please read it so you will be ready for the listening experience in class. Now that music notation is being fully developed music plays an ever increasing role in the development of Western culture. Be familiar with at least one major work of these Renaissance masters: Donotello, Botticelli, van Eyck, da Vinci, Michelangelo and Raphael. How do Renaissance paintings differ from Gothic and Byzantine art? _ 34

35 31, 32 - William Shakespeare * Chapter 19 "Shadow and Substance: Literary Insights into the Renaissance," Text pp * The Tragedy of King Lear, William Shakespeare (available through the Internet, see the On-line syllabus) Overview: The works of William Shakespeare established the form for the theater in the modern West. What similarities can you find between King Lear and the great Greek tragedies? Are there any lines from King Lear that you recognize? _ 35

36 33, 34: 17th Century Paradigm Shift and the Rise of Science * Chapter 20 "Science, Reason and Absolutism," Text pp Overview: Absolutism, "the scientific method," and representative democratic government developed and perfected in the late 16th and early 17th centuries is the basis for our current understanding of reality and our late 20th century answer to the Terrible Question. You should be familiar with the major players and their contributions: Galileo, Descartes, Isaac Newton, John Locke. The individualism we spoke of earlier is manifest again in the Enlightenment and the Age of Reason. What are Newton's three laws of motion? What does cogito ergo sum mean? What is the "doctrine of inevitable progress" and how does it define a major idea of the Enlightenment? What did John Locke mean by his idea of tabular raza? What was Kant's categorical imperative? _ 36

37 35: Baroque, Rococo and Neoclassicism * Chapter 21 "Art: Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassic," Text p Overview: Look closely at the figures in the text and get a feel for the new realism and action captured in Baroque art. Note there is another David on p.351 (Figure 21.5) to add to our growing list. You should be able to see a strong Greek influence in the examples of neoclassic art in the text. Look back at the neoclassical painting on p.2. This masterpiece was painted by Constance Marie Charpentier one of the great artists of this time. The examples in the text show a marked contrast between the three styles. Identify for yourself artistic conventions for each group so that you can identify them. _ 37

38 36: Music Basics ** Secular Music and Polyphonic Music from Chapter 15 medieval music and Dance: Sacred and Secular, pp Appendix Music Listening and Notation, pp Listening and appreciating music is a skill that you can develope throughout your life. Note that the basics of sounds and music are really very simple. Ponder the four characteristics of sound and of music. How do they combine to create the kinds of music you like and listen to? _ 38

39 37: Classical Music ** Chapter 22 "Music: Baroque, Rococo, and Classical," Text pp Overview: There was dualism in many facets of culture during the Baroque era. We observed examples of this while discussing the art and architecture of the period. In music a significant aspect of this dualism was the rise in importance of instrumental music to a position equal with vocal music. You are probably familiar with some famous works from this period by composers such as Bach, Handel, Vivaldi or Pacabel. Make sure to study the table on p.380 (Table 22.1). This chart offers a good outline of the progression of the integrated humanities of the "modern west" beginning with the Age of Reason. To be culturally literate it is imperative that you be familiar with the major composers and works produced during this era ( ) which includes many of the greatest musical geniuses in Western history including Mozart, and Beethoven. Many of the basic instrumental ensembles we now take for granted were developed during this period. What is meant by a musical key? What are the hall marks of music from the Middle Ages? What is a pianoforte and why was its invention important? What is an oratorio and how does it relate to opera? Don Giovani is believed by many to be the greatest opera ever written. Who wrote it? Whose 5th Symphony is considered by many to be the perfect symphony? Trace the development of the major stylistic periods using the chart on p.379 (Figure 22.1.) _ 39

40 38: Revolutions, Democracy and the Industrial Revolution * Chapter 23 "Revolution, Romanticism, Realism," Text pp , pp Overview: In reviewing the revolutions and political thought of this era the text assumes you understand the basics of the American Revolution. Make sure to review the dates, ideas and major players involved in the American Revolution if your understanding is unclear or nonexistent. Though the French Revolution begun in 1789 did not result in the national reforms hoped for by its instigators the ideas it was based on were very important and helped to fuel other revolutions and political reforms that spread democracy throughout much of Europe. The textile industry of England was the birth place of the Industrial Revolution. The new automated industry, improved world wide transport, railroads and the rise of capitalism created a new economic community. One important reaction to the growing capitalist nations was the doctrine of Marx and Engel which postulated the evolution of the perfect classless society, communism. War was often romanticized during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Weapons of war outstripped both strategy and medical science resulting in great slaughter and suffering. What was the Code of Napoleon? If Marx's ideas were based on his belief in the basic goodness of humans then a belief in what human trait lies at the heart of capitalism? Are there any ideas and/or philosophies prevalent today that are similar to those espoused by the Romantic Movement. How is Hegel's "triadic dialectic" reflected in the Culture-Epoch Theory of the text. 40

41 39: Romanticism ** Literary Selections from Chapter 25 "Nineteenth-Century Art: Conflict and Diversity," pp , * Chapter 25 "Nineteenth-Century Art: Conflict and Diversity," Text pp Overview: The chart on p.240 (Table 24.1) illustrates how symphony orchestras grew to accommodate the broad, ornate, colorful sounds developed through the stylistic progression: Baroque to Classical to Romantic music. When studying Chapter 25 the illustrations are equally or more important than the text. Make a conscious effort to connect the written descriptions and biographies to the works of art in the many Figure boxes. You may be familiar with some of the impressionists or post-impressionists. Make an effort to build on the names and paintings that are familiar to gain a better, broader view of this important period in the development of Western art and culture. Compare the paintings on pp (Romanticism) (Realism) pp (Impressionism) to get a feel for the distinct differences in these two forms. Do paintings in the Romantic style evoke the same feelings as the Romantic poetry read in the previous chapter? What is the Eiffel Tower and where does it stand? What subject matter are the paintings of Edgar Degas most noted for? What is the title of the painting on p.448? Who painted it? 41

42 40: Darwin and Freud ** 'Philosophy, Science and Social Thought' from Chapter 23 "Revolution, Romanticism, Realism," pp * 'Freud and the Inner World' from Chapter 26 "Things Fall Apart: The Center Cannot Hold," p Overview: The ideas of Darwin were adapted and utilized by a wide variety of disciplines and pursuits. Among others, how his theories connected with Hegel and Marx is most interesting. The concept of Social Darwinism was and is evident in many parts of the west including America. Like Marx's political plan, Freudian psychoanalysis has not endured because it was based on a false premise. Still, like communism, Freud's ideas have had a profound effect on the shaping of our culture. Who first used the phrase "survival of the fittest?" In scientific pursuits what is the difference between "laws" and "theories?" How is the American doctrine of Manifest Destiny related to Darwinism? What is Social Darwinism. What are id, ego and superego? _ 42

43 41: The Twentieth Century * Chapter 27 "Ideas and Conflicts that Motivate the Twentieth Century," Text pp Overview: Two important contributors to 20th century western culture are existentialism and the progress of science. Both of these important factors are addressed in this chapter. In America the Civil Rights Movement is of particular importance when defining our current culture. "Rights" are a strong driving force today including Gay Rights, Women's Rights, Minority's Rights and many others trace their roots to the fight for racial equality in the Southern United States during the 1960's. Letter From Birmingham Jail is an important 20th century document and should be read carefully. Most prognosticators are predicting that the 21st century will be the Information Age, with computers and computer networks defining a bigger and bigger portion of our society and our culture. What is Mutually Assured Destruction (MAD) and what effect has it had on American life in the 20th century? What is the Paris Charter and what part did it play in the Cold War? What is the existentialist's answer to the Terrible Question? What two "keys of freedom" did Virginia Woolf prescribe to emancipate women? 43

44 42: Einstein, Hawking and the New Science ** 'Modern Science' from Chapter 26 "Things Fall Apart: The Center Cannot Hold," Text pp Overview: With the expansion of quantem mechanics and the science of chaos some scientists and sociologists feel that the scientific method may have run its course and a new paradigm is forming by which the 21st century West will interpret the world and discover what is real. What is the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle? What is the butterfly effect and what does it have to do with Chaos Theory? Why do many historians and scientists say that the Modern Era began on May 29, 1919? _ 44

45 Appendix I: Handouts 45

46

47 Sumerians/Egyptians Minoans Ancient Greeks Roman Empire Middle Ages Renaissance Scientific Revolution Enlightenment Industrial Revolution 45

48 Greek Timeline Pericles Socrates Plato Aristotle Alexander

49 St. Augustine Eternal truths vs seminal creations Only good is substantive God is a being not a principle Creation ex nihilo Time: all is present to God Reason alone cannot discover truth 47

50 Who was where in the 6 th Century A.D. Justinian -- Emperor of the Eastern Empire, Constantinople Visigoths -- Kingdom in Spain Vandals -- Held North Africa Ostrogoths -- Ruled Rome, Theodoric Pope Gregory I -- Exertinging power in Rome Angles-Saxons -- Established in England Clovis -- King of the Franks (France) 48

51 Renaissance Botticelli Da Vinci Copernicus Machiavelli Columbus Michelangelo Martin Luther- ---Henry VIII---- -Shakespeare- 49

52 Scientific Revolution -- Baroque ( ) Philosphers/Scientists Art Music Francis Bacon Rubens Vivaldi Galileo Rembrandt Frederick Handel Rene Descarte Johann S. Bach Enlightenment -- Rococo ( ) Philosphers/Scientists Art Music Isaac Newton Boucher Haydn Rouseau Fragonard Wolfgang Mozart John Locke Enlightenment -- Neoclassical ( ) Philosphers/ Statesmen Art Music Thomas Jefferson David Wolgang Mozart John Stuart Mill Ingres Beethoven Adam Smith 50

53 Elements of sound 1. Pitch 2. Intensity 3. Timbre 4. Duration 51

54 Elements of music 1. Rhythm 2. Melody 3. Harmony 4. Timbre 52

55

56 Appendix II : Primary Sources 54

57 Primary Sources The Odyssey, Homer Theogony, Hesiod Agamemnon, Aeschylus Oedipus the King, Sophocles Medea, Euripides Lysistrata, Aristophanes The History, Herodotus The Republic, Plato On Poetics, Aristotle The Aeneid, Virgil The Lives of the Noble Grecians and Romans, Plutarch On the Revolutions of the Heavenly Spheres, Nicolaus Copernicus The Confessions, St. Augustine Summa Theologica, St. Thomas Aquinas The Divine Comedy, Dante Alighieri The Prince, Nicolo Machiavelli Leviathan, Thomas Hobbes The Essays, Michel de Montaigne The Tragedy of King Lear, William Shakespeare Paradise Lost, John Milton Mathematical Principles of Natural Philosophy, Isaac Newton Concerning Human Understanding, John Locke The Social Contract, Jean Jacques Rousseau Wealth of Nations, Adam Smith The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, Edward Gibbon On Liberty, John Stuart Mill Capital, Karl Marx The Origin of Species, Charles Darwin Manifesto of the Communist Party, Marx and Engel The Origins and Development of Psychoanalysis, Sigmund Freud 55