Spring,
Fall
4
Major Requirement: History of Europe, Period prior to 1500
This course studies the end of the Ancient World and the emergence of the Middle Ages. We start with the Roman Empire at the peak of its power and proceed to study its dramatic crisis, transformation and eventual fall. The barbarian invasions, the diffusion of Christianity, the establishment of a powerful Catholic church, the emergence of new artistic traditions, and the rise of Islam are some of the themes covered in this wide-ranging survey. Students will have the opportunity to meet and understand characters such as Constantine, Attila the Hun, Augustine of Hippo, Justinian and Muhammad. (Course offered in alternate years.)
Prerequisite: Sophomore Status