[HIS 105] History of Western Civilization

Introduction

History 105 is Part 1 of the History of Western Civilization.

This course is an overview of the origins and development of what is known as Western Civilization, from its ancient beginnings up to the era of the Renaissance and Reformation. Western Civilization refers to the civilization that began in the ancient Near East and then developed primarily in Europe, northern Africa and the westernmost edges of Asia. The cultural and political legacy of this civilization is vast and has become predominant in much of the world.

The objective in this course is to understand how this civilization began and developed. Students will concentrate on several major themes: the rise and fall of the ancient and classical civilizations that were the forerunners to the rise of the West; the cultural legacy of these civilizations; the changing role of religion in society and changes in religion itself; the development of political institutions; and, of central importance, the continuing quest for new knowledge and its consequences on Western Civilization.

The period that will be discussed is vast and multifaceted, and hence, difficult to master. However, its breadth also makes it a fascinating period to study.

Description

UW Colleges Catalog Course Description for HIS 105: History of Western Civilization - 3 credits. Survey of Western Civilization from ancient times through the Renaissance, emphasizing the distinctive features of Western culture, political development, economic development and the contributions made by non-Western people. This course fulfills the UWC requirement for Humanities (HU).

Proficiencies

Institutional proficiencies assigned to this course

Successful completion of this course will enhance students' ability to

• interpret and synthesize information and ideas;
• analyze and evaluate arguments;
• construct an argument in support of a conclusion;
• communicate clearly, precisely, and in a well-organized manner.

Requirements

Software

• Microsoft Word.

  The most current edition of MS Office (containing MS Word, Excel and other valuable programs) is available to University of Wisconsin students at discounted prices through the Wisconsin Integrated Software Catalog.

• Students will need to be able to play audio files.

About the Instructors

• Jean Berger
  Associate Professor, History
  AA, University of Wisconsin-Marshfield/Wood County
  BA, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
  MA, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
  PhD, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
  
• Kyle Fingerson
  Lecturer, History
  BA, Montana State University
  MA, University of Wisconsin-Madison
  PhD, University of Wisconsin-Madison
  
• Mark Karau
  Senior Lecturer, History
  BA, Marquette University
  MA, Marquette University
  PhD, Florida State University