HIST 102 Western Civilization, 1648 to World War II [GEKH]

A survey of western history from the 17th century to World War II. Major themes include the rise of modern states, the emergence of science, the impact of European colonialism on the non-European world, upheavals in the arts and philosophy, and the origins and consequences of total war.

Credit 3 hrs May not be repeated for additional credit
Grade Mode Normal (A-F) Course Rotation Fall, Winter, and Summer (irregularly)

Prerequisites -
Restriction by Major -
Restriction by Class - Undergraduate standing

Rationale for Knowledge of the Disciplines - History 102 explores the development of Western Europe from the mid-seventeenth century until World War II through the examination of literary, philosophical and religious texts. Students in this class will be given a solid grounding in the major political, social and economic developments of early modern and modern Europe. This context will prepare them to explore various literary, political, philosophical and religious texts, to understand how they were both products of their age and powerful shapers of European thought, culture and society. Many texts will reflect how political and social power was structured and projected in this formative era of European history, and these texts will offer students ample opportunity to reflect upon issues of class, gender and race. Through an exploration of philosophical and scientific writings, students will explore the tremendous paradigm shift which occurred with the scientific revolution in early modern Europe, a shift that fundamentally altered the way in which men and women viewed nature, the universe and human nature. The study of religious and philosophical texts will also allow students to examine the repercussions of this paradigm shift in religious thought and practice as well. Finally, numerous literary works and texts will offer students an understanding of the mentality and values of bourgeois society in nineteenth century Europe, and help them grasp the nature, causes, and consequences of the terrible wars that erupted in Europe in 1914 and 1939. Students will leave this course having gained an appreciation for early modern and modern Western Europe culture and society, and will have developed a sensitivity to the dynamic interplay between social and cultural institutions and values, and the writing and thought produced within the framework of those values and institutions.

Equivalent Course(s) -
Course History -
Course Rotation added 1/2015; Change to title and description 2/2012, effective Fall 2012

history, Knowledge of the Disciplines - Humanities (GEKH)

Winter 2025 Course Sections

Fall 2024 Course Sections