HST 101 Midterm Study Guide

"STUDY GUIDE" FOR THE HST 101 MIDTERM
​It's not much, but it's all you got! I know that college classrooms can be unwieldy and cumbersome when it comes to information. And I also know full well the pangs caused by a professor that says, "everything is fair game for the midterm/final." That's why I create this page so you could have a more clinical approach to your studying.  

​As far as the mechanics of the midterm:

• Full Details for the midterm can be found HERE
• 8 questions will be asked; you will be responsible for answering 4 of your choosing.
• Responses will be 1-2 paragraphs long.
• You will have 60 min. to complete the midterm after you begin
• You MAY use notes you have taken during the course.

Topic 1 EMPIRES
The ancient Akkadian, Persian, Roman, and Byzantine Empires, like resilient warriors, strode across the historical stage, each leaving a distinct mark on civilization. From the Akkadians' micromanagement prowess to the Persians' multicultural integration, these empires offer valuable lessons for today's urban landscape. They remind us of the importance of balance—centralized control and individual autonomy, cultural assimilation, and diversity.

Today, in the vibrant urban landscapes we call home, we are not mere inhabitants, but the architects of our own destiny. Like the ancient empires, we grapple with issues of governance, cultural integration, and preserving our collective heritage. As we navigate the complex web of modern life, we strive to leave behind a legacy that reflects our struggles and triumphs—and, perhaps, a touch of humor amidst the chaos.

IN OTHER WORDS: The Akkadian, Persian, Roman, and Byzantine Empires each had unique systems of government and culture that significantly influenced their regions and left lasting legacies in areas like language, law, and art.

Topic 2 SEX
Step back into the murky waters of love and romance before the 16th century, where being ghosted meant your partner had become a ghost, and swiping left involved dodging the plague, not Tinder profiles. Picture a world where Christianity wasn't just a Sunday affair but a full-time surveillance system scrutinizing your every move, especially in matters of the heart. Marriage wasn't a mere declaration of love; it was a contract tighter than a pact with the devil, divorce as rare as finding a unicorn. The Church and society dictated everything from fidelity to social status, leaving little room for personal choice. Courtly love was more court-mandated, with men holding power at home and in public.

Yet, love struggled to bloom amidst the grip of tradition and authority. Social status, wealth, and lineage determined romantic matches more than affection did. Love wasn't blind but keenly focused on advantageous alliances and hefty dowries. Navigating pre-modern romance was akin to traversing a labyrinth with the Church, society, and family holding the map, leaving individuals to dodge the traps. Welcome to the chaotic realm of love before the Renaissance, where even Cupid wore a chastity belt.

IN OTHER WORDS: Before 1500 in the West, Christianity heavily influenced love and relationships, favoring marriage, moral standards set by religious leaders, and patriarchal traditions, often leading to arranged marriages based on social status and family obligations.

Topic 3 RELIGION
Throughout human history's tapestry, religion emerges as the ultimate influencer, orchestrating societal dynamics with divine precision. From the mythological dramas of Ancient Greece to the rigid structures of medieval Europe, its sway is as evident as incredulous. In the ancient world, every aspect of life resembled a celestial soap opera, with gods like Zeus and Athena being consulted for every conceivable need. The Oracle of Delphi acted not only as a seer but as the original influencer, dispensing advice as cryptic as it was sought after.

In medieval Europe, the Christian Church wielded unparalleled power, dictating spiritual, political, and social norms. Kings and emperors danced to its tune, fearing excommunication more than any earthly punishment. Yet, amidst the dogma and control, religion also offered a bizarre blend of justification and absurdity, from divine right claims to its aversion to scientific inquiry. Whether it was Zeus's divine theatrics or the Church's stranglehold on power, history has always been a stage for the cosmic comedy of human existence, with religion as the unseen scriptwriter and humanity as the unwitting actors.

IN OTHER WORDS: Like the gods of Ancient Greece or the Christian Church in medieval Europe, religion powerfully shaped society, power structures, and the balance between faith and reason, as seen in figures like Galileo.

Topic 4 DRUGS
The eternal dance between humanity and substances, a saga as old as civilization itself, weaves its way through the annals of history. Picture the Sumerians reveling in libations in honor of Ninkasi, the original brewmaster deity. At the same time, the Greeks pondered life's mysteries over a glass of wine or ventured into realms of opium-induced bliss. It's a tapestry of millennia-spanning indulgence, where moderation was as elusive as a sober philosopher at a toga party.

Fast forward to the modern era, where the War on Drugs wages an uphill battle against substances, transforming them from cultural staples to societal scourges. Yet, amidst moral panic and legislative fervor, science reveals addiction not as a moral failing but as a neurological glitch. This revelation prompts a societal crossroads: continue punitive measures or embrace a more empathetic approach recognizing addiction as a medical challenge. As we navigate this complex terrain, perhaps we can learn from our ancestors' experiences, finding a balance between indulgence and restraint and treating those trapped in the tangled web of substance use with compassion.

IN OTHER WORDS: Studying how ancient civilizations used substances offers insights into today's drug perspectives, advocating for culturally aware approaches and harm reduction strategies and recognizing both risks and therapeutic uses of different substances.

Topic 5 POLITICS
In the rollercoaster ride of historical power dynamics, Ancient Greece, Rome, and Byzantium serve as captivating yet cautionary tales, reflecting the absurdities of our contemporary society. For instance, the political drama in these civilizations, where the pursuit of power played out in ways that rival even our most sensational reality TV shows, can be seen mirrored in the cutthroat world of modern politics and the media circus that often surrounds it.

From Athens' elitist democracy to Rome's intricate political maneuvering and Byzantium's perilous court intrigues, each empire grappled with timeless questions of governance and accountability. Despite their differences, they shared a common struggle: preventing the powerful from dominating and ensuring that all voices were heard. These struggles, though rooted in the past, are not unique to these civilizations. They are universal, and we continue to face them in our modern governance structures. We would do well to heed the lessons of our ancient predecessors, recognizing that democracy demands active participation, vigilance against tyranny, and a commitment to inclusive decision-making.

IN OTHER WORDS: Looking at ancient examples from Greece, Rome, and Byzantium, we learn the importance of strong institutions, inclusivity, and accountability in contemporary governance to uphold democratic values and prevent the abuse of power.

Topic 6 FOOD
In the ongoing saga of human history, food isn't merely about satisfying our hunger—it's the flavorful essence that weaves the narrative of our civilization. For instance, the discovery that berries could be consumed without dire consequences led to the birth of the agricultural revolution and, subsequently, the era of settled societies. This shift from a nomadic lifestyle to a settled one was a direct result of the cultivation of bountiful harvests, capable of feeding an army of social media specialists. Yet, alongside the relief from prehistoric predators came new challenges, like navigating the complexities of land ownership.

Imagine the culinary journey along the Silk Road—a transcontinental exchange of spices, grains, and perhaps a few enchanted relics. This global potluck, rich with exotic flavors and political intrigue, reshaped societies and redefined cultural identities. It was a time when food was not just sustenance, but a symbol of cultural exchange and diversity. Even amidst this gastronomic adventure, religious doctrines added their seasoning, dictating dietary commandments and sparking debates over what was deemed permissible or profane to eat. This tumultuous journey through agricultural revolutions, culinary globalization, and the rise of industrial food complexes, however, holds a promise for a future where sustainability and diversity reign supreme, nourishing both body and soul and ensuring a legacy of abundance for generations to come.

IN OTHER WORDS: Food has played a crucial role throughout history, influencing agriculture, trade, religion, and technology. It impacts power dynamics, societal structures, and the environment, suggesting the need for sustainable practices and education for fair and eco-friendly food systems.

Topic 7 MUSIC
From the chaotic symphonies of Ancient Greece to the melancholy ballads of medieval Europe, our journey through the annals of music is a whimsical odyssey, showcasing the bizarre choreography of culture and custom. Imagine Ancient Greece, where music wasn't just a backdrop but the essence of existence. Whether in solemn religious ceremonies or rowdy political gatherings, there was a tune for every occasion, with Pythagoras uncovering harmony secrets like an ancient DJ.

Yet, beneath the surface melodies lie a profound truth: music isn't merely about sounds; it's the pulse of society, the beat of our collective soul. Whether echoing through the temples of Athens or resonating in the grand cathedrals of Europe, music has always been more than a mere distraction; it's been a mirror reflecting our deepest desires and fears. And as Western music spread like wildfire, igniting hearts across the globe with its catchy tunes and irresistible rhythms, we mustn't overlook the rich contributions of other cultures. From the haunting melodies of the Middle East to the rhythmic cadences of Africa, the world is a tapestry of sound, each culture weaving its distinctive thread into the symphony of humanity.

IN OTHER WORDS: From Ancient Greece to Medieval times, musical evolution reflected social, cultural, and spiritual changes, shaping identity, fostering global cultural exchange, and requiring a diverse understanding to appreciate its richness and significance.

Topic 8 VIOLENCE
Violence, that age-old dance partner of humanity, swirling us through history's corridors with all the elegance of a drunk ballroom brawler. From the ancient battlegrounds of Mesopotamia to the medieval streets of Europe, blood has flowed like fine wine, painting our collective narrative with tales of conquest, oppression, and occasional moments of, let's say, "population rearrangement." But amidst the chaos and carnage, a glimmer of hope persists, a beacon of enlightenment flickering in the darkness like a moth drawn to profound discourse.

Embarking on our journey through the annals of human folly, we begin with ancient Mesopotamia, a land of fertile crescents and even more fertile egos. Picture it: city-states grappling like oversized toddlers over the last cookie. Yet beyond mere land and resources, the seductive allure of power drove kings and conquerors to commit acts of, let's euphemistically call them, "strategic decision-making." From there to the pyramids of Egypt, the philosophical debates of Greece, and the gladiatorial spectacles of Rome, the pattern persisted—a tale of strife, tragedy, and the enduring hope for a world where olive branches replace swords.

IN OTHER WORDS: Violence has shaped Western civilization, evident in ancient Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, Rome, and medieval Europe, urging us to learn from history and promote peace, dialogue, reconciliation, and understanding for a future built on cooperation and compassion.

Nerd vs. Exam Dragon (2023)

Need some help when it comes to studying or getting your head around slayin' the ol' exam dragon? Hopefully these videos can help!

HST 101