Western Civilization I: Ancient to 1450 Fall Semester 2003
Frank Luttmer 113 Classic Hall M W F: 7:30-8:00, T 10-11 866-7205 (office) (502) 454-8348 (home)historians@hanover.edu
The beginning of a four-semester sequence in Western Civilization, this course is an introduction to the history of the Mediterranean world and Europe from ancient times to the end of the Middle Ages, with particular attention given to classical Greece and Rome and the High Middle Ages. The purpose of the Western Civilization sequence is to provide students of history and the liberal arts with a solid foundation in the principal ideas, institutions, and events that have shaped Western civilization. It seeks to promote an understanding of historical context and perspective and to encourage the skills essential to historical inquiry, including the capacity to define historical questions, analyze primary documents, evaluate alternative interpretations, develop coherent arguments, and write clearly and effectively. The course is organized in chronological sequence, with emphasis given to the close relationship between economic, social, political, religious, and intellectual developments of the same immediate historical period.
Final grades will be based on an evaluation of the following.
1. Two mid-term exams (15% each) and a final exam (20%)
Exams will consist of essay questions. Each of the three exams will cover roughly one-third of the course; the third exam will also include a comprehensive section.
2. A paper submitted in two drafts (15% for the first draft and 25% for the second)
The research paper can be on any topic in Western civilization through the Middle Ages. Papers are to be analytical and interpretive; they should present a thesis and develop an argument. You are encouraged to use primary sources, and you are expected to examine the historiographical context of your topic. The grade of each draft will be based on the quality of the thesis and argument, the quality of the evidence and logic, and the quality of the writing. The grade of the second draft will also reflect the improvement (or lack of improvement) shown between the first and second draft. You should consult with me about your paper at least a week before each draft is due.
3. Class participation (10%)
The success of this class depends upon the quality of the dialogue in class. It is expected that you will attend every class and that you will be fully prepared to discuss the material assigned for that day. Class participation grades will reflect your attendance record, the frequency of your contributions to class discussions, and the quality of your questions, observations, and conclusions.
