English Human Traditions II

What did I gain from this course?

  • Improved writing skills
  • Improved reading comprehension skills
  • Introduction to popular American literature including Walden, The Declaration of Independence, Uncle Toms Cabin, and more

Course description: This course introduces us to the broad range of human cultures from prehistory to the present, taking a thematic approach rather than a strictly chronological one. Its framework reflects our commitment, expressed in the second year theme of our core curriculum, to cultivate social and global awareness. We ask questions such as the following: what are the epochal developments in the history of the world? What are the forms of religious belief and practice? What are the artistic and literary achievements of the world? What yearnings do these traditions express? What are the political, literary, philosophical and cultural connections among them? What are the assumptions they make? What questions do they raise? For example, when does civilization arise? Where? Why? What are its characteristics and enduring challenges? What does the emergence of urban societies mean for relations between rich and poor, between men and women, and between humans and their natural environment?

Writing sample:

Walden America

“As a transcendentalist, his purpose in writing was to encourage Americans to change their ways of life by challenging their current way of thinking.

Thoreau argues that Americans are living in a way that is completely unnatural and should go back to living simpler lives that are not centered around capitalism. Though it may seem like an easy thing to do, there is a question today of whether or not this lifestyle is actually feasible in a modern American society.”