THE NEWMAN SCHOOL
BOSTON
EUROPEAN HISTORY
MR. TIFFANY SPRING 2012
THE NEWMAN SCHOOL
BOSTON
EUROPEAN HISTORY
MR. TIFFANY SPRING 2012
Course description:
The study of European history since 1815 introduces students to cultural, technological, and social developments that played a fundamental role in shaping the present world. Without these perspectives, Americans lack the context for understanding. "The past is not an irrelevance. History is to the nation what memory is to the individual. As an individual deprived of memory becomes disoriented and lost, ….so a nation without an understanding of its past will be disabled in dealing with its present and its future." (Arthur M. Schlesinger, Jr.)
In addition to providing a basic narrative of events and movements, the goals of the course are to develop (a) an understanding of some of the principal themes in European History, (b) an ability to analyze historical evidence and historical interpretation, and (c) an ability to express historical understanding in writing.
Class time will be used to review reading assignments, discuss visual media presentations, introduce "outside" readings,
construct timelines and maps, and debate the issues facing the historical actors. Class participation is expected and will be graded.
Course Requirements and Required Materials
⁃ 1. THE FIRST WORLD WAR, by John Keegan. (published May 2000, ISBN-13: 978-0375700453 (available from Amazon for $11.09)
⁃ 2. A full size PAPER notebook for taking notes and which can be inspected intermittently by the instructor. (If notes are taken by laptop computer, they
⁃ must be printed and submitted in a loose-leaf binder.)
⁃ 3. Purchase and use of a collegiate level English dictionary. (Recommended: The American Heritage Dictionary: Fourth Edition (21st Century Reference) [Mass Market Paperback]- $5.99)
Goals and Objectives
1. To be able to read aloud and understand critical terms, concepts, and vocabulary of the times and actors.
2. To ascertain themes of common import to both the 19th Century and the emerging 21st Century
3. To become confident readers of international publications such as the New York Times, International Herald Tribune, London Times.
4. Refinement and practice of clear expository writing.
Course Policies and Instructor Expectations
READING the TEXT and HANDOUTS in time for class discussion is expected. The best way to come to grips with unknown concepts
and terms is to read with an English dictionary at hand.
ACTIVE CLASS PARTICIPATION: Raising hands for attention and permission is mandatory. (Or you will be called upon.)
GRADING POLICY:
* 60% from an average of timelines, maps, short papers
* 20 % from on long paper and class presentation
* 20% from results of comprehensive final examination