HIS 342: European and Mediterranean History

Goal: This course offers students an immersive exploration of the complex histories and interconnections of Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East across time. The course challenges students to achieve four primary goals: First, students will develop an in-depth understanding of one or more of the civilizations, religious transformations, imperial expansions, cultural exchanges, and political evolutions within these historically intertwined regions. Second, students will learn to critically analyze significant patterns of interaction between societies by evaluating the impact of cross-cultural exchanges on regional development. Third, students will synthesize diverse perspectives by analyzing primary sources reflecting various cultures and social groups within these regions. Finally, students will communicate sophisticated historical interpretations with scholarly language, supporting their claims through appropriate evidence while constructing arguments about how these interconnected histories continue to shape our world today. Through carefully selected case studies, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of how European and Mediterranean societies have influenced each other through conflict, cooperation, and cultural exchange.
Prerequisite(s): Satisfactory completion of College writing proficiency requirement or permission of instructor.
Credit: 3
Degree Level: Undergraduate