Course Outline

Course Prospectus

Honors 1390

Origins of Civilization

Description:

A study of literary, mythic, and philosophical works selected with special attention to narratives about the origins of humanity and civilization. The course assumes that study of a variety of explanations of human existence will broaden students' perspectives and provide insight into the background of contemporary world cultures. Students will respond to readings in short papers designed to stimulate class discussion, in class presentations, in a documented paper, and in a final examination.

Course objectives:

The course provides students the opportunity to think reflectively and critically about the origins of cultures, our own as well as those found in other parts of the world. It will also offer students opportunities to develop skills as writers of reflective, speculative, and documented papers and to make oral presentations.

Instruction:

Combination of discussion and lecture, with periods reserved for group and individual presentations, interdisciplinary activities, and lectures from guest speakers. Shorter papers will provide opportunities for round-table discussion.

Evaluation:

4 short essays (3 pages: reflective, analytic, speculative, creative

topics) 40%

presentation (individual project) 10%

documented paper (7-8 pages) 30%

final examination 20%

Texts:

The Revised English Bible.

Niane, D.T. Sundiata: An Epic of Old Mali

Lao, Tzu. Tao-te-ching

Ovid. Metamorphoses

The Ramayana