This course explores the development of Western Civilization from the rise of the national monarchies in the Renaissance Era through the conclusion of the Cold War in the late twentieth century, with particular emphasis on the sixteenth through eighteenth centuries. Key topics include relations between Catholicism and Protestantism and their effects on European society; the rise and challenges of absolutist and limited monarchies, democratic republics, and totalitarian regimes; capitalism, socialism, communism, liberalism, nationalism, and conservatism; Scientific Revolution and the Enlightenment; religious war, revolution, and total war; as well as overseas exploration, colonization, racism, anti-Semitism, and imperialism. This course seeks to provide students with a keen awareness of our debt to past societies and with perspectives on where human civilization may be headed. Spring semester.
Core Curriculum Designation: WT
Grade Basis: Letter Grade
Credits: 4.0
