In this course, Western Civilization, we will be studying major trends and events that shaped the course of European history from approximately 5000BC until 1648, the end of the Thirty Years' War. History is primarily the study and interpretation of written evidence from the past. As a student of history, you will be required to not only read the assigned text and attend lecture, but also to evaluate the material in a scholarly, critical fashion in class discussions, in essays, and in journal entries. You are expected to have completed the assigned reading before class so that you have a background understanding of the lecture topic and are able to participate in class discussions.
Discussion is an essential part of the history learning process.
We all gain from it. Your viewpoint is valuable and you should have no hesitation about expressing it as it relates to the topic at hand. In the space of eighteen weeks we will cover over 6000 years of fascinating history. Every class meeting is essential. You must attend class regularly and arrive on time.