AbstractsHistory

I have created and developed a curriculum to teach a college level introductory course in Western Culture and Civilization. The scope of this curriculum includes the Greek, Roman, and Medieval periods. The course is designed to introduce students to major events and developments during each of these eras, to examine values and ideas that were fundamental to these cultures, and to help students understand the important government and religious structures of each of these civilizations. Primary sources are used throughout the curriculum to allow the student the opportunity to become engaged with and analyze important works produced during each time period. The curriculum is organized into three units, Greece, Rome, and Medieval. Each unit explains early characteristics of each society and the events that led to its demise. Within each of these units are several sections that include important cultural aspects of the era, for example Art and Architecture, Government, Religion, and Society. The course provides many opportunities, through lecture, reading and analysis, for the student to reflect on ideas and developments of these early civilizations and find their relevance in contemporary society.