Emphasis is placed on the interrelationship of the martial arts, cultures and religions of the region. The Arts, their history and development provide a stepping stone to deeper understanding of the culture and peoples of the region. Nihilism and the Modern World Course traces the economic, philosophical, literary and psychological sources of nihilism in the modern world. Study of works of Nietsche, Freud, Darwin, Dostoevsky, Camus, Sarte and other scholars as well as various film makers as students examine the nihilistic world view that maintains that all of our higher values have been revalued and rendered meaningless.
Course examines the roots of the novel in a historical and cultural context.
Study of Classical Greek, Medieval, Renaissance and Modern notions of what kinds of behavior, constitutions and character were and are considered normal, abnormal and ideal. An independent study project involving the researching and writing of an Honors thesis on a topic chosen by the student in consultation with Honors Program Director and faculty. Taken in either semester of the student's senior year.