The Birth of the Modern World is an interdisciplinary course that integrates the philosophy,art,and history of the European Renaissance and Reformation. The historical origin and spread of the Renaissance will be traced from Florence to the Netherlands. Critical thinking about key historical debates will form the foundation of the course, namely: the reemergence of classical ideas, the question of free will in a Reformation context, and the political perspectives of Machiavelli. The course will help students cultivate not only a knowledge of the history and philosophy of Renaissance Europe, but also a deeper understanding of the complex arc of the history of ideas, and the impact of the Renaissance on the modern day.
Selection Criteria:
There is a physical requrement for this course. The destinations in this course involve uneven ruins located sometimes in hilly locations that require steep climbs,and busy cities requiring brisk walks from one form of transport to another. Students must therefore be able to 1) walk one mile in 20 minutes, AND 2) walk two miles in 45 minutes, 3) Walk 6 miles in a day. Students who cannot meet these requirements cannot attend. If students require more than one seat on a coach or ferry, they must pay for the additional seat. Ther are no prerequisites for this course. Minimum number of participants is 15; the maximum is 22.
Destination:
- Italy
- Switzerland
- Germany
- Netherlands
Program Dates:
June 1, 2017 – June 16, 2017