A survey of the major currents in Western civilization from its beginnings in the ancient Near East to 1648.

This survey course introduces students to political, economic, military, religious, and cultural developments of the ancient, medieval, and early modern periods that constitute the foundation for the modern West. It is a required prerequisite for upper-level courses in European history, and it may also fulfill a portion of the General Education requirement.

Textbook readings and lecture presentations

No details available.

Course Requirements Checklist

After reading the Course Syllabus and Student Expectations, the student will complete the related checklist found in the Course Overview.

Discussions (2)

Discussions are collaborative learning experiences. Therefore, the student will participate in two different threads by writing an initial thread of 300-400 words in response to the assigned topic. The student will then participate in discussion of the topic by posting a minimum of 2 responses. Responses will be a minimum of 100 words with no maximum. Threads will be open the entire week, and students are encouraged to participate throughout the time they are open. In addition to general comparison/contrast, students will be provided with opportunity for specific biblical evaluation of historical topics. Further details on requirements and grading are provided in the course. (CLO: A, B, C; FSLO: CIL 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5; CT 1, 2, 3, 5; CGE 1 and 5; CC 4).

Evaluative Essay Assignments (2)

The student will write two essay papers, evaluating their selected topic-assigned sources alongside biblical scripture. The essays will be between 750–1100 words. Further details on requirements and grading are provided in the course.  (CLO: A, B, C; FSLO: CIL 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5; CT 1, 2, 3, 5; CGE 1 and 5; CC 4).

Character Profile Assignments (3)

The student will produce three character profiles. They will select a figure from the approved list and discuss briefly the individual’s life, importance, and views of critics to better understand the history of Western Civilization. (CLO: B, C, D, E; FSLO: CIL 1, 2, 3, 4; CT 1, 2)

Chapter Quizzes (15)

The student will take timed quizzes covering the content of the course textbook. Each quiz consists of 20 multiple-choice questions. There is a 40-minute time limit, and 2 attempts will be permitted with the higher grade counting for the final score in Canvas. (CLO: A, B, C; FSLO: CIL 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5; CT 1, 2, 3, 5; CGE 1 and 5; CC 4).

Lecture Quizzes (8)

The student will take timed, weekly lecture quizzes that cover all lectures within the assigned module. Each quiz consists of 10 multiple choice questions. There is a 20-minute time limit for each quiz and only 1 attempt will be allowed for these quizzes. (CLO: A, B, C; FSLO: CIL 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5; CT 1, 2, 3, 5; CGE 1 and 5; CC 4).