This subject surveys the main currents of European cultural and intellectual history in the modern period. Such a foundation course is central to the humanities in Europe (Geistesgeschichte, histoire des idées). The curriculum introduces a set of ideas and arguments that have played a formative role in European cultural history, and acquaints them with some exemplars of critical thought. With each text, special consideration will be devoted to the work's enduring influence over contemporary European culture.

Readings begin with the Protestant Reformation, and move through the French Revolution up to the post-WWII period. Figures to be considered include Luther, Descartes, Kant, Hegel, Rousseau, Smith, Marx, and Freud. Class discussions will set these texts into the context of European culture: to be considered are artworks by Goya, David, and Duchamp; the architecture of Schinkel; the music of Bach; and the literature of Goethe. Taught in English.

Purpose

This course serves as a foundation for those pursuing further courses in European Studies. Students will be expected to construct arguments of their own about the issues raised. The course places a premium on excellence in communication; papers, oral presentations, and active participation in class discussions account for the full final grade. Students are expected to demonstrate progress in critical analysis and expression.

Requirements

The method of pedagogy is based on three modes: instruction, practice, and feedback. Students are given the fullest opportunity to engage in class discussions. Students shall receive constructive commentary on each assignment, and will be asked to revise their work when appropriate.

1. Class participation is essential to this course. In order to make a valuable contribution students should come prepared to each class. Assigned readings must be completed before each class meeting. A guiding question shall accompany each assignment. Students who are unable to attend a class must inform the instructor in advance, either in person or by telephone. Students with more than four absences shall be automatically dropped from the class.
   
   On most days students shall submit brief written responses (200-250 words each) to the question on the reading assignment. Although these responses will not be graded, such individual preparation will enhance class discussions. Furthermore, regular writing practice will prepare students for longer papers, both in this course and beyond. Of the 21 questions distributed over the course of the semester, students may select 15 to which they would like to respond. Students shall account for their progress with this series by consecutively marking each text (i.e. 1/15, 2/15… ). No extensions shall be granted for these writing assignments.
   
   Courtesy toward others in discussions is expected.
   
   Grading: Participation in class discussion and submission of ten brief written responses-- 10%.
   
   
2. One of the primary goals of this course is the development and refinement of critical analysis and argument. To this end students will write four essays. In finished essays any and all references must be cited. Essays must conform to MLA standards. A good guideline for word counts is this: 1 manuscript page = 250 words.
   
   Essays are due at noon on the dates indicated. Essays submitted late without prior permission from the instructor will be penalized by one full letter grade. Essays submitted more than one week will be penalized by two full letter grades. Always keep a printed copy of your essay.
   
   The first essay is a diagnostic exercise. Students are required to submit revised versions of this essay. For this assignment, only the revised essay will be graded.
   
   Grading: First essay and revision-- 10%, second essay-- 10%, third essay-- 20%, fourth essay-- 25%.
   
   
3. In addition to the writing assignments, students will also be expected to deliver an oral presentation. Students shall prepare and present a one-page handout on the day's reading. In these twenty-minute presentations students should provide a summary of the author's main points, describe the historical context in which the text was produced, and open up a few questions for discussion.
   
   Presentations will be evaluated according to the following criteria: insight, clarity, and, importantly, the degree to which presenters are able to stimulate the thoughtful participation of their classmates.
   
   Grading: One oral presentation-- 10%.
   
   
4. Final, cumulative exam.
   
   Grading: Final examination-- 15%.