Module Three: Divine Comedy
Western religious history unfolds like a quirky sitcom in the bustling nooks of today's urban sprawls, where the aroma of street food dances with less pleasant odors. Picture a Renaissance fellow, perhaps a Leonardo da Vinci type, enjoying a fancy coffee in a trendy spot, sketching some wild invention and musing about humanistic ideals. Ah, the enlightenment era, when folks fancied themselves the universe's VIPs, much like the stars of their social media feeds.
Zoom ahead to the Reformation, where Martin Luther, the OG provocateur, tacked his 95 Theses up like the first epic tweet. "Can I get a 'Hallelujah?'" Luther jestingly asked, setting off a spiritual wildfire that birthed countless Protestant flavors. Oh, the splendors of schism, where everyone craves a slice of divine delight but can't settle on the toppings.
Then, the Enlightenment dawned, a time of logic and questioning. Think of Voltaire and Rousseau as the OG comment section heroes, championing religious freedom and the chuChurch'sundary from the state. "Down with the old ways!" they proclaimed, giving tradition a metaphorical wedgie with their smarts and sass. But with reason came doubt, casting faith into an existential crisis.
Cue the Industrial Revolution, where progress strutted ahead, leaving behind a messy wake of worker woes and moral gray areas. The ChuChurchver, the humanitarian, tried to sweep up, battling its greed. "Render unto Caesar..." they advised, but Caesar seemed to be eyeing everything.
The 20th century was a wild ride of beliefs and backgrounds. Wars rattled faith's foundations, leaving folks soul-searching. Amid the turmoil, new spiritual movements became like dandelions, each claiming a shortcut to heavenly bliss. Interfaith chit-chats boomed, but so did clashes sparked by extreme views.
So, what's the zany takeaway from this romp through Western religious history? First off, it's a neon sign warning against division and fanaticism. Progress often means someone's getting the short end of the stick. And it's a nudge to not unquestioningly trust big-name groups, whether they're spiritual or just... corporate.
Digging into religious history isn't just bookish fun; it's soul-searching 101. It shines a light on the culture shaping us, warts and all. It nudges us to welcome differences and amp up our empathy, even as we sort out our spiritual spaghetti.
The next time you sip your posh coffee or swiping through your feed, spare a thought for Western religious history's quirky twists. It's an ongoing saga full of highs, lows, and unexpected plot twists. And hey, you might stumble upon a nugget of wisdom in the most offbeat spots.
THE RUNDOWN
QUESTIONS
Zoom ahead to the Reformation, where Martin Luther, the OG provocateur, tacked his 95 Theses up like the first epic tweet. "Can I get a 'Hallelujah?'" Luther jestingly asked, setting off a spiritual wildfire that birthed countless Protestant flavors. Oh, the splendors of schism, where everyone craves a slice of divine delight but can't settle on the toppings.
Then, the Enlightenment dawned, a time of logic and questioning. Think of Voltaire and Rousseau as the OG comment section heroes, championing religious freedom and the chuChurch'sundary from the state. "Down with the old ways!" they proclaimed, giving tradition a metaphorical wedgie with their smarts and sass. But with reason came doubt, casting faith into an existential crisis.
Cue the Industrial Revolution, where progress strutted ahead, leaving behind a messy wake of worker woes and moral gray areas. The ChuChurchver, the humanitarian, tried to sweep up, battling its greed. "Render unto Caesar..." they advised, but Caesar seemed to be eyeing everything.
The 20th century was a wild ride of beliefs and backgrounds. Wars rattled faith's foundations, leaving folks soul-searching. Amid the turmoil, new spiritual movements became like dandelions, each claiming a shortcut to heavenly bliss. Interfaith chit-chats boomed, but so did clashes sparked by extreme views.
So, what's the zany takeaway from this romp through Western religious history? First off, it's a neon sign warning against division and fanaticism. Progress often means someone's getting the short end of the stick. And it's a nudge to not unquestioningly trust big-name groups, whether they're spiritual or just... corporate.
Digging into religious history isn't just bookish fun; it's soul-searching 101. It shines a light on the culture shaping us, warts and all. It nudges us to welcome differences and amp up our empathy, even as we sort out our spiritual spaghetti.
The next time you sip your posh coffee or swiping through your feed, spare a thought for Western religious history's quirky twists. It's an ongoing saga full of highs, lows, and unexpected plot twists. And hey, you might stumble upon a nugget of wisdom in the most offbeat spots.
THE RUNDOWN
- The Renaissance revived interest in learning and art, challenging traditional religious beliefs.
- The Reformation in the 16th century led to new Protestant churches and conflicts like the Thirty Years' War.
- The Enlightenment promoted reason and tolerance, questioning the power of religious institutions.
- The Industrial Revolution brought new religious movements and challenges, with some churches helping workers.
- The 20th century saw religious diversity grow but also conflicts and questions about faith.
- Studying this history helps us understand Western culture, promote tolerance, and make fair policies.
QUESTIONS
- In what ways did the Industrial Revolution affect religious beliefs and practices?
- What are some examples of religious diversity in the 20th century, and how did it impact Western society?
- Why is studying the history of religion important for understanding Western culture and promoting tolerance today?
#3 Credit is Important
History is woven with the intricate threads of triumphs and tragedies, acts of heroism and unspeakable horrors, and the occasional individual who stumbled unwittingly into greatness while pursuing mundane objectives like locating misplaced car keys. It constitutes a tumultuous journey through the annals of time, where participants either secure their names in the eternal record or, more frequently, fade into obscurity, akin to the hazy memories of regrettable choices from the previous night. Let's delve into the imperative principle of ascribing due recognition. It mirrors the ethos of history – treating others' contributions with the same respect one would desire for their own. History often resembles a tabloid column composed by a discerning neighbor privy to everyone's affairs yet prone to misrepresenting the finer details.
Consider the Civil Rights Movement, an illustration of Martin Luther King Jr. basking in the spotlight like a Broadway diva. However, behind the scenes, an ensemble cast of predominantly female unsung heroes toiled tirelessly for justice. It's reminiscent of an Oscars ceremony, where everyone anticipates their moment, but the industry consistently neglects distributing well-deserved accolades. Then there's the Tuskegee Syphilis Study, an unsettling narrative of individuals, assuming they were enrolling in a health spa, unwittingly becoming subjects of an unethical experiment. If only their involuntary sacrifice garnered the acknowledgment it warranted, perhaps they would have preferred a spa day.
Now, let's scrutinize the convoluted DNA storyline. James Watson and Francis Crick bask in the glory of the Nobel Prize for unraveling the DNA structure. Yet, the vital contribution of Rosalind Franklin remains obscured in the background, akin to an unsung hero in a rock band, diligently executing laborious tasks while the leads hog the limelight. The failure to accord proper credit transcends mere historical oversights; it represents a broader societal lapse. It's akin to the moment you forget a friend's birthday, but on a global scale, with ramifications far weightier and fewer cake remnants.
Beyond the aversion to replicating the missteps of our historical forebears, it is high time we acknowledged the diversity inherent in the attribution of credit. It is time to peruse the closing credits and encounter a roster as diverse as a music festival lineup. Granting due credit is not solely a historical imperative but an ethical one. It involves recognizing that everyone played a role in this intricate, convoluted narrative, even those relegated to the sidelines without a single line.
In conclusion, let us refrain from emulating the individuals who chronicle history as if crafting a high school yearbook, selectively highlighting only the cool kids. Instead, let us accord credit where it rightfully belongs, glean lessons from the epic failures of the past, and forge a future that transcends the trappings of a historical blooper reel, aspiring to be an opulent masterpiece worthy of acclaim.
RUNDOWN
STATE OF THE WORLD
Consider the Civil Rights Movement, an illustration of Martin Luther King Jr. basking in the spotlight like a Broadway diva. However, behind the scenes, an ensemble cast of predominantly female unsung heroes toiled tirelessly for justice. It's reminiscent of an Oscars ceremony, where everyone anticipates their moment, but the industry consistently neglects distributing well-deserved accolades. Then there's the Tuskegee Syphilis Study, an unsettling narrative of individuals, assuming they were enrolling in a health spa, unwittingly becoming subjects of an unethical experiment. If only their involuntary sacrifice garnered the acknowledgment it warranted, perhaps they would have preferred a spa day.
Now, let's scrutinize the convoluted DNA storyline. James Watson and Francis Crick bask in the glory of the Nobel Prize for unraveling the DNA structure. Yet, the vital contribution of Rosalind Franklin remains obscured in the background, akin to an unsung hero in a rock band, diligently executing laborious tasks while the leads hog the limelight. The failure to accord proper credit transcends mere historical oversights; it represents a broader societal lapse. It's akin to the moment you forget a friend's birthday, but on a global scale, with ramifications far weightier and fewer cake remnants.
Beyond the aversion to replicating the missteps of our historical forebears, it is high time we acknowledged the diversity inherent in the attribution of credit. It is time to peruse the closing credits and encounter a roster as diverse as a music festival lineup. Granting due credit is not solely a historical imperative but an ethical one. It involves recognizing that everyone played a role in this intricate, convoluted narrative, even those relegated to the sidelines without a single line.
In conclusion, let us refrain from emulating the individuals who chronicle history as if crafting a high school yearbook, selectively highlighting only the cool kids. Instead, let us accord credit where it rightfully belongs, glean lessons from the epic failures of the past, and forge a future that transcends the trappings of a historical blooper reel, aspiring to be an opulent masterpiece worthy of acclaim.
RUNDOWN
- Proper credit in history is crucial for presenting accurate events, acknowledging contributions, and preventing distorted historical narratives.
- Recognizing diverse contributions, such as those in the Civil Rights Movement, ensures a more inclusive view of the past beyond prominent figures.
- Failure to give proper credit can perpetuate historical inaccuracies and marginalize certain groups, as seen in the Tuskegee Syphilis Study.
- Rosalind Franklin's case in the discovery of DNA structure underscores the importance of crediting all contributors for a comprehensive understanding.
- Studying the subject today promotes ethical considerations, encouraging acknowledgment of the impact of individuals and groups in historical research.
- Understanding the consequences of historical misattribution shapes efforts to create a more just and inclusive future, emphasizing fairness and equity in recording and sharing history.
STATE OF THE WORLD
1485 the drama was in full swing, with feudal lords bickering over power, Renaissance artists doubling as influencers for the elite, and the Ming Dynasty sailing the seas while Europe was still figuring out rowboats. The Ottoman Empire was expanding like a real-life game of Risk, and the Mughal Empire was conquering lands while possibly choreographing ancient TikTok dances. Africa's trade routes were the original Amazon Prime, and pre-Columbian Americas were building wonders without power tools. Fast forward to today, with our tech gadgets and avocado toast, we're still grappling with life's big questions and weird quirks, from Renaissance fashion to modern man buns. Whether it's 1485 or 2024, life remains an endlessly fascinating and absurd journey.
HIGHLIGHTS
We've got some fine classroom lectures coming your way, all courtesy of the RPTM podcast. These lectures will take you on a wild ride through history, exploring everything from ancient civilizations and epic battles to scientific breakthroughs and artistic revolutions. The podcast will guide you through each lecture with its no-nonsense, straight-talking style, using various sources to give you the lowdown on each topic. You won't find any fancy-pants jargon or convoluted theories here, just plain and straightforward explanations anyone can understand. So sit back and prepare to soak up some knowledge.
LECTURES
LECTURES
- UNDER CONSTRUCTION!
The Reading section—a realm where our aspirations of enlightenment often clash with the harsh realities of procrastination and the desperate reliance on Google. We soldier on through dense texts, promised 'broadening perspectives' but often wrestling with existential dread and academic pressure. With a healthy dose of sarcasm and a strong cup of coffee, I'll be your guide on this wild journey from dusty tomes to the murky depths of postmodernism. In the midst of all the pretentious prose, there's a glimmer of insight: we're all in this together, united in our struggle to survive without losing our sanity.
READING
This class utilizes the following textbook:
Sherman, Dennis, and Joyce Salisbury. The West in the World. 5th ed. McGraw Hill, 2013.
In the whirlwind of academia, where tweed jackets and discussions about the best coffee spot reign, Joyce Salisbury and Dennis Sherman stand out as the rebels of historical scholarship. Armed with Salisbury's Ph.D. in medieval history from Rutgers University and Sherman's academic journey from UC Berkeley to the University of Michigan, they challenge the conventional norms with their scholarly prowess and irreverent wit. Salisbury fearlessly delves into ancient violence with works like "The Blood of Martyrs" and uncovers forgotten tales of resilience in "The Encyclopedia of Women in the Ancient World." Meanwhile, Sherman, akin to an academic Indiana Jones, roams the globe contemplating French history in Parisian cafes and making history accessible with titles like "A Short History of Western Civilization." Together, they disrupt the ivory tower with their unapologetic approach and thirst for asking the tough questions.
As a dynamic duo, Salisbury and Sherman defy the stereotype of the stuffy historian. Their partnership merges Salisbury's pen, mightier than Excalibur itself, with Sherman's knack for weaving accessible narratives. They're not just scholars but cultural provocateurs challenging the status quo. So, here's to raising a glass (or a quill) to these academic renegades, who breathe life into the dusty corridors of historical scholarship with their relentless curiosity and scholarly swagger.
RUNDOWN
READING
- Chapter 14. A New World of Reason and Reform: The Scientific Revolution and the Enlightenment, 1600-1800
This class utilizes the following textbook:
Sherman, Dennis, and Joyce Salisbury. The West in the World. 5th ed. McGraw Hill, 2013.
In the whirlwind of academia, where tweed jackets and discussions about the best coffee spot reign, Joyce Salisbury and Dennis Sherman stand out as the rebels of historical scholarship. Armed with Salisbury's Ph.D. in medieval history from Rutgers University and Sherman's academic journey from UC Berkeley to the University of Michigan, they challenge the conventional norms with their scholarly prowess and irreverent wit. Salisbury fearlessly delves into ancient violence with works like "The Blood of Martyrs" and uncovers forgotten tales of resilience in "The Encyclopedia of Women in the Ancient World." Meanwhile, Sherman, akin to an academic Indiana Jones, roams the globe contemplating French history in Parisian cafes and making history accessible with titles like "A Short History of Western Civilization." Together, they disrupt the ivory tower with their unapologetic approach and thirst for asking the tough questions.
As a dynamic duo, Salisbury and Sherman defy the stereotype of the stuffy historian. Their partnership merges Salisbury's pen, mightier than Excalibur itself, with Sherman's knack for weaving accessible narratives. They're not just scholars but cultural provocateurs challenging the status quo. So, here's to raising a glass (or a quill) to these academic renegades, who breathe life into the dusty corridors of historical scholarship with their relentless curiosity and scholarly swagger.
RUNDOWN
- Western civilization underwent a significant change from medieval ideas to new scientific discoveries.
- Science became a driving force in the West, aiming to understand and control nature.
- Enlightenment thinkers pushed for reason over tradition, believing it would lead to progress and freedom.
- Critics accused Enlightenment figures of self-interest, but most historians view them as sincere and influential.
- Their ideas challenged religious doctrines and paved the way for revolutions in America and Europe.
- The Enlightenment emphasized reason, individualism, and progress, shaping modern Western society.
Howard Zinn was a historian, writer, and political activist known for his critical analysis of American history. He is particularly well-known for his counter-narrative to traditional American history accounts and highlights marginalized groups' experiences and perspectives. Zinn's work is often associated with social history and is known for his Marxist and socialist views. Larry Schweikart is also a historian, but his work and perspective are often considered more conservative. Schweikart's work is often associated with military history, and he is known for his support of free-market economics and limited government. Overall, Zinn and Schweikart have different perspectives on various historical issues and events and may interpret historical events and phenomena differently. Occasionally, we will also look at Thaddeus Russell, a historian, author, and academic. Russell has written extensively on the history of social and cultural change, and his work focuses on how marginalized and oppressed groups have challenged and transformed mainstream culture. Russell is known for his unconventional and controversial ideas, and his work has been praised for its originality and provocative nature.
My classes utilize both Howard Zinn's A People's History of the United States and Larry Schweikart's Patriot's History of the United States, mostly in excerpts posted to the modules.
My classes utilize both Howard Zinn's A People's History of the United States and Larry Schweikart's Patriot's History of the United States, mostly in excerpts posted to the modules.

Zinn, A People's History of the United States
"...The need for slave control (In America) led to an ingenious device, paying poor whites-themselves so troublesome for two hundred years of southern history-to be overseers of black labor and therefore buffers for black hatred.
Religion was used for control. A book consulted by many planters was the Cotton Plantation Record and Account Book, which gave these instructions to overseers: 'You will find that an hour devoted every Sabbath morning to their moral and religious instruction would prove a
great aid to you in bringing about a better state of things amongst the Negroes...'
"...The need for slave control (In America) led to an ingenious device, paying poor whites-themselves so troublesome for two hundred years of southern history-to be overseers of black labor and therefore buffers for black hatred.
Religion was used for control. A book consulted by many planters was the Cotton Plantation Record and Account Book, which gave these instructions to overseers: 'You will find that an hour devoted every Sabbath morning to their moral and religious instruction would prove a
great aid to you in bringing about a better state of things amongst the Negroes...'

Larry Schweikart, A Patriot's History of the United States
"...By 1700, then, three major themes characterized the history of the early English colonies. First, religion played a crucial role in not only the search for liberty, but also in the institutions designed to ensure its continuation. From the Mayflower Compact to the Charter of Liberties, colonists saw a close connection between religious freedom and personal liberty. This fostered a multiplicity of denominations, which, at a time when people literally killed over small differences in the interpretation of scripture, 'made it necessary to seek a basis for political unity' outside the realm of religion..."
"...By 1700, then, three major themes characterized the history of the early English colonies. First, religion played a crucial role in not only the search for liberty, but also in the institutions designed to ensure its continuation. From the Mayflower Compact to the Charter of Liberties, colonists saw a close connection between religious freedom and personal liberty. This fostered a multiplicity of denominations, which, at a time when people literally killed over small differences in the interpretation of scripture, 'made it necessary to seek a basis for political unity' outside the realm of religion..."

Thaddeus Russell, A Renegade History of the United States
"... God forbid they could be simply and only "fun." Historians hostile to popular culture-who are far more numerous-dismiss it as part of the "culture of consumption" that was forced on the masses by advertisers, who were labeled by one historian as 'the captains of consciousness.' Though billions of Americans have gained real pleasure, radically improved their lives, and determined the production of goods by what economists call 'voting with one's feet,' nearly all histories of consumerism are negative. Allegedly 'progressive' scholars write as if they are unaware that bourgeois moralists of the nineteenth century were the first to criticize the 'base' desires and 'unseemly' spending habits of the masses."
"... God forbid they could be simply and only "fun." Historians hostile to popular culture-who are far more numerous-dismiss it as part of the "culture of consumption" that was forced on the masses by advertisers, who were labeled by one historian as 'the captains of consciousness.' Though billions of Americans have gained real pleasure, radically improved their lives, and determined the production of goods by what economists call 'voting with one's feet,' nearly all histories of consumerism are negative. Allegedly 'progressive' scholars write as if they are unaware that bourgeois moralists of the nineteenth century were the first to criticize the 'base' desires and 'unseemly' spending habits of the masses."
Religion: That evergreen guest who crashes your party grabs your favorite spot on the couch and starts preaching about life choices while sneaking sips of your top-shelf wine. Ready to dish on its role in shaping the Western world? Let's dive in with a sprinkle of wit and a pinch of candor, because religion's quirks have kept us both chuckling and pondering.
Pop culture is our communal playground, where we flaunt our love for avocado toast and TikTok while soothing our existential jitters with some online retail therapy. Advertisers? Those sly puppeteers who make us drool over new gadgets or that pair of snazzy kicks. Let’s admit it: We've all been lured into binge-watching a cheesy reality show or snagging a gadget just because it had a “discount” sticker.
The printing press? Sure, it opened up knowledge for all, but it also made forgetting your shopping list a full-blown crisis. Progress, it seems, is a coin with two faces.
The early English adventurers set sail chasing religious freedom and a better brew of tea. Instead, they found wild woods, feisty locals, and a troubling lack of quality tea leaves. But at least their faith kept the campfires burning and their spirits high while they reshuffled a few local tribes.
The Mayflower Compact and Charter of Liberties were their blueprint for a religiously tolerant paradise. And then Salem happened, turning it into a deadly "Guess Who: The Witch Edition." The OG reality TV, but with more stakes – literally.
Slavery, that grim tale where religion played the cheerleader. Plantation owners treated their Plantation Records like the Gospel, cherry-picking verses to justify the indefensible. While some Quakers were like, “Doesn't this go against the whole 'love thy neighbor' thing?”
Religion here was less a guiding light and more a smokescreen, numbing the moral pangs while propping up racial biases.
Post-1500 CE religion is like decoding a Facebook relationship status – messy and everyone’s got a take. We’ve got religious freedom that warms our hearts and then there's extremism that has us bickering like Black Friday shoppers over that last big-screen TV.
Diving into its history helps us tread lightly in today's debates, from holiday greetings to the big questions about extremism and state-church separation.
Religion’s influence on Western civilization is like a master chef's work – sometimes gourmet, sometimes a bit too experimental. It’s been our moral touchstone and our pitfall. And while its impact can be as unpredictable as your streaming service recommendations, one thing's clear: brushing off its role is as risky as ignoring Uncle Bob’s BBQ grilling tips at family gatherings.
THE RUNDOWN
QUESTIONS
Pop culture is our communal playground, where we flaunt our love for avocado toast and TikTok while soothing our existential jitters with some online retail therapy. Advertisers? Those sly puppeteers who make us drool over new gadgets or that pair of snazzy kicks. Let’s admit it: We've all been lured into binge-watching a cheesy reality show or snagging a gadget just because it had a “discount” sticker.
The printing press? Sure, it opened up knowledge for all, but it also made forgetting your shopping list a full-blown crisis. Progress, it seems, is a coin with two faces.
The early English adventurers set sail chasing religious freedom and a better brew of tea. Instead, they found wild woods, feisty locals, and a troubling lack of quality tea leaves. But at least their faith kept the campfires burning and their spirits high while they reshuffled a few local tribes.
The Mayflower Compact and Charter of Liberties were their blueprint for a religiously tolerant paradise. And then Salem happened, turning it into a deadly "Guess Who: The Witch Edition." The OG reality TV, but with more stakes – literally.
Slavery, that grim tale where religion played the cheerleader. Plantation owners treated their Plantation Records like the Gospel, cherry-picking verses to justify the indefensible. While some Quakers were like, “Doesn't this go against the whole 'love thy neighbor' thing?”
Religion here was less a guiding light and more a smokescreen, numbing the moral pangs while propping up racial biases.
Post-1500 CE religion is like decoding a Facebook relationship status – messy and everyone’s got a take. We’ve got religious freedom that warms our hearts and then there's extremism that has us bickering like Black Friday shoppers over that last big-screen TV.
Diving into its history helps us tread lightly in today's debates, from holiday greetings to the big questions about extremism and state-church separation.
Religion’s influence on Western civilization is like a master chef's work – sometimes gourmet, sometimes a bit too experimental. It’s been our moral touchstone and our pitfall. And while its impact can be as unpredictable as your streaming service recommendations, one thing's clear: brushing off its role is as risky as ignoring Uncle Bob’s BBQ grilling tips at family gatherings.
THE RUNDOWN
- Religion after 1500 CE profoundly shaped Western civilization, influencing popular culture, governance, and social structures.
- Popular culture, often criticized as a "culture of consumption," has both democratized access to goods and services and led to overconsumption with environmental consequences.
- Early English colonies like those in America saw religion as central to the quest for liberty, as evidenced by documents like the Mayflower Compact and the Charter of Liberties.
- However, religious differences sometimes resulted in conflicts and persecutions, such as the Salem witch trials, showcasing religious intolerance.
- Slavery in America was deeply entwined with religion, with some groups like the Quakers advocating for abolition while others manipulated religion to justify enslavement.
- Studying religion's role in this period is crucial for understanding modern notions of religious liberty, racial hierarchies, and contemporary issues like religious extremism and secularism.
QUESTIONS
- What are the positive and negative aspects of studying religion's influence on Western civilization after 1500 CE? How does understanding this history inform contemporary discussions on religious liberty and secularism?
- In what ways has religion been used both as a tool for empowerment and as a means of control throughout history? Provide examples to support your points.
- How do you think the criticisms of popular culture as a "culture of consumption" stand in today's world? Do you agree or disagree with this characterization, and why?
Prepare to be transported into the captivating realm of historical films and videos. Brace yourselves for a mind-bending odyssey through time as we embark on a cinematic expedition. Within these flickering frames, the past morphs into a vivid tapestry of triumphs, tragedies, and transformative moments that have shaped the very fabric of our existence. We shall immerse ourselves in a whirlwind of visual narratives, dissecting the nuances of artistic interpretations, examining the storytelling techniques, and voraciously devouring historical accuracy with the ferocity of a time-traveling historian. So strap in, hold tight, and prepare to have your perception of history forever shattered by the mesmerizing lens of the camera.
THE RUNDOWN
In a universe where grub is gold, journeying is a jaunt, and being human is a never-ending comedy of errors, the Spanish Inquisition stands out as a timeless eye-opener to our quirkiness. Imagine savoring a divine paella in Valencia, sun shining, life feeling swell, only to be interrupted by an unannounced visit from torch-wielding, heresy-hunting zealots. Or being a Converso, a Jew turned Christian, thinking you’ve cracked the code, only to have the Inquisition crash your party, claiming you're colluding against the Church. From the tragic tale of Constanza de Perpignan and family, the Inquisition’s poster children, to VIPs like Jaime de Montesa, even big shots weren’t safe from the witch hunt. Today's world still echoes with Inquisition vibes, from religious zeal to political plotting.
Yet, amidst the chaos, there's a lesson. Humans are a messy mix of brilliance and bonkers, capable of both breathtaking kindness and downright nastiness. The Spanish Inquisition serves as a grim reflection of our shadowy sides, our knack for fear and loathing, but also our resilience and ability to find humor in adversity. As we navigate urban mazes, enjoy our favorite foods, and dream of distant lands, let's remember to question, challenge, and above all, aim for kindness, understanding, and a good laugh. Whether munching on paella or facing life's curveballs, we’re all riding this wild, wacky, wonderful ride called existence together. So, let’s make it count.
In a universe where grub is gold, journeying is a jaunt, and being human is a never-ending comedy of errors, the Spanish Inquisition stands out as a timeless eye-opener to our quirkiness. Imagine savoring a divine paella in Valencia, sun shining, life feeling swell, only to be interrupted by an unannounced visit from torch-wielding, heresy-hunting zealots. Or being a Converso, a Jew turned Christian, thinking you’ve cracked the code, only to have the Inquisition crash your party, claiming you're colluding against the Church. From the tragic tale of Constanza de Perpignan and family, the Inquisition’s poster children, to VIPs like Jaime de Montesa, even big shots weren’t safe from the witch hunt. Today's world still echoes with Inquisition vibes, from religious zeal to political plotting.
Yet, amidst the chaos, there's a lesson. Humans are a messy mix of brilliance and bonkers, capable of both breathtaking kindness and downright nastiness. The Spanish Inquisition serves as a grim reflection of our shadowy sides, our knack for fear and loathing, but also our resilience and ability to find humor in adversity. As we navigate urban mazes, enjoy our favorite foods, and dream of distant lands, let's remember to question, challenge, and above all, aim for kindness, understanding, and a good laugh. Whether munching on paella or facing life's curveballs, we’re all riding this wild, wacky, wonderful ride called existence together. So, let’s make it count.
Welcome to the mind-bending Key Terms extravaganza of our history class learning module. Brace yourselves; we will unravel the cryptic codes, secret handshakes, and linguistic labyrinths that make up the twisted tapestry of historical knowledge. These key terms are the Rosetta Stones of our academic journey, the skeleton keys to unlocking the enigmatic doors of comprehension. They're like historical Swiss Army knives, equipped with blades of definition and corkscrews of contextual examples, ready to pierce through the fog of confusion and liberate your intellectual curiosity. By harnessing the power of these mighty key terms, you'll possess the superhuman ability to traverse the treacherous terrains of primary sources, surf the tumultuous waves of academic texts, and engage in epic battles of historical debate. The past awaits, and the key terms are keys to unlocking its dazzling secrets.
KEY TERMS
KEY TERMS
- 1483 CE - Martin Luther
- 1509 CE - John Calvin
- 1517 CE - Protestant Reformation
- 1545 CE - Council of Trent
- 1618 CE - Thirty Years' War
- 1692 CE - Salem Witch Trials
- 1703 CE - John Wesley
- 1730 CE - First Great Awakening
- 1790 CE - Second Great Awakening
- 1859 CE - On the Origin of Species and Religion
- 1869 CE - First Vatican Council
- 1883 CE - Thus Spoke Zarathustra
- 1893 CE - World Parliament of Religions
- 1917 CE Balfour Declaration
- 1962 CE - Second Vatican Council
- 1979 CE - Islamic Revolution in Iran
- 1979 CE - The Moral Majority
- 1988 CE - The Satanic Verses
- 2013 CE - Pope Francis's Election
- 2014 CE - Rise of New Atheism Movement
DISCLAIMER: Welcome scholars to the wild and wacky world of history class. This isn't your granddaddy's boring ol' lecture, baby. We will take a trip through time, which will be one wild ride. I know some of you are in a brick-and-mortar setting, while others are in the vast digital wasteland. But fear not; we're all in this together. Online students might miss out on some in-person interaction, but you can still join in on the fun. This little shindig aims to get you all engaged with the course material and understand how past societies have shaped the world we know today. We'll talk about revolutions, wars, and other crazy stuff. So get ready, kids, because it's going to be one heck of a trip. And for all, you online students out there, don't be shy. Please share your thoughts and ideas with the rest of us. The Professor will do his best to give everyone an equal opportunity to learn, so don't hold back. So, let's do this thing!
Activity #1: UNDER CONSTRUCTION
Activity #2: UNDER CONSTRUCTION
Activity #1: UNDER CONSTRUCTION
Activity #2: UNDER CONSTRUCTION
Ladies and gentlemen, gather 'round for the pièce de résistance of this classroom module - the summary section. As we embark on this tantalizing journey, we'll savor the exquisite flavors of knowledge, highlighting the fundamental ingredients and spices that have seasoned our minds throughout these captivating lessons. Prepare to indulge in a savory recap that will leave your intellectual taste buds tingling, serving as a passport to further enlightenment.
Religion—the gripping saga of divine sparks, moral high-fives, and the occasional, "Well, that escalated quickly!" It's the ultimate icebreaker at any eternal soirée.
Let's time-travel a bit, shall we? Imagine the Mayflower as more like a reality show's pilot season with Puritans in search of a do-over. Enter the Mayflower Compact—the original friendship pact, with a nod to both God and each other. Think of it as a sitcom pilot but with extra witchy drama. Salem 1692—the place where catching a glimpse of someone's blazing exit was the talk of the town. That's what I call a hot topic!
Skip a beat to the slavery era—when human ownership was strangely seen as not just okay but also a heavenly endorsement. Kudos to the Quakers, the moral north stars amidst the moral mazes. Imagine this religious mashup: "Treat others as you'd like to be treated" against "Well, the book says owning folks is fine." Can you say, "Awkward Bible book club"?
Then, hello, Renaissance! Big ideas, even bigger egos. Suddenly, people pondered, "What if there's more to life than just worshiping God?" Enter the Reformation, a theological showdown between Protestants and Catholics over who had the snazzier rituals. Spoiler: it was a draw. We got some cool tunes and art out of it!
Next up was the Enlightenment, when thinking became trendy. Voltaire and Locke were the original influencers, the trendsetters challenging norms with their witty writings. Religion played catch-up against these new thinkers preaching "reason" and "proof."
Fast-forward to the Industrial Revolution, when religion and capitalism looked each other in the eye and wondered, "Could this work?" Churches tried to be hip, offering spiritual boosts to workers while wondering if the divine would endorse factory sweat. Spoiler: likely not.
The 20th century was a rollercoaster. Immigration and globalization made Western cultures a religious buffet, with everyone serving up their spiritual fare. It made for some memorable chats and cringy family dinners—like when Uncle Sam had one too many servings of American pride and woke up with a 9/11 hangover.
So, why watch religion after 1500 CE? It's our collective diary—the wins, oopsies, divine nudges, and all-too-human bloopers. The messy, intricate, often eyebrow-raising tale molds our identities.
Are we figuring out religion's role in Western history? It's like solving a Rubik's Cube on a rollercoaster ride—tricky, occasionally dizzying, but oh-so-worth it. It's a reminder that we're all in this wacky, unpredictable human story together, for richer or quirkier.
Or, in others words:
Let's time-travel a bit, shall we? Imagine the Mayflower as more like a reality show's pilot season with Puritans in search of a do-over. Enter the Mayflower Compact—the original friendship pact, with a nod to both God and each other. Think of it as a sitcom pilot but with extra witchy drama. Salem 1692—the place where catching a glimpse of someone's blazing exit was the talk of the town. That's what I call a hot topic!
Skip a beat to the slavery era—when human ownership was strangely seen as not just okay but also a heavenly endorsement. Kudos to the Quakers, the moral north stars amidst the moral mazes. Imagine this religious mashup: "Treat others as you'd like to be treated" against "Well, the book says owning folks is fine." Can you say, "Awkward Bible book club"?
Then, hello, Renaissance! Big ideas, even bigger egos. Suddenly, people pondered, "What if there's more to life than just worshiping God?" Enter the Reformation, a theological showdown between Protestants and Catholics over who had the snazzier rituals. Spoiler: it was a draw. We got some cool tunes and art out of it!
Next up was the Enlightenment, when thinking became trendy. Voltaire and Locke were the original influencers, the trendsetters challenging norms with their witty writings. Religion played catch-up against these new thinkers preaching "reason" and "proof."
Fast-forward to the Industrial Revolution, when religion and capitalism looked each other in the eye and wondered, "Could this work?" Churches tried to be hip, offering spiritual boosts to workers while wondering if the divine would endorse factory sweat. Spoiler: likely not.
The 20th century was a rollercoaster. Immigration and globalization made Western cultures a religious buffet, with everyone serving up their spiritual fare. It made for some memorable chats and cringy family dinners—like when Uncle Sam had one too many servings of American pride and woke up with a 9/11 hangover.
So, why watch religion after 1500 CE? It's our collective diary—the wins, oopsies, divine nudges, and all-too-human bloopers. The messy, intricate, often eyebrow-raising tale molds our identities.
Are we figuring out religion's role in Western history? It's like solving a Rubik's Cube on a rollercoaster ride—tricky, occasionally dizzying, but oh-so-worth it. It's a reminder that we're all in this wacky, unpredictable human story together, for richer or quirkier.
Or, in others words:
- Religion influenced governance and social cohesion in early American colonies like in the Mayflower Compact, but also led to conflicts such as the Salem witch trials due to religious intolerance.
- The moral debate around slavery was deeply intertwined with religion; while Quakers advocated abolition based on Christian principles, others used religion to justify enslavement.
- The Renaissance and Reformation challenged religious orthodoxy, leading to the emergence of new Protestant churches and conflicts like the Thirty Years' War.
- The Enlightenment promoted reason and tolerance, questioning religious institutions' authority and laying the groundwork for secularism.
- The Industrial Revolution brought new religious movements like Methodism, with churches supporting workers while also grappling with the rise of materialism.
- The 20th century saw growing religious diversity and challenges like religious extremism, emphasizing the ongoing relevance of studying religion in Western civilization.
ASSIGNMENTS
Forum Discussion #04
- Forum Discussion #4
- Quiz #1
Forum Discussion #04
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Please answer the following question:
How have the criteria for defining a religion evolved in Western civilization since 1500 CE, and should movements like the Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster be considered legitimate religions?
Need help? Remember the Discussion Board Rubric.
THE RUNDOWN
The Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster—a culinary creed that even the most devout non-believers can't resist. Our mayor, ever the bureaucratic mastermind, finds himself in a tangle of noodle knots, struggling to tell the sacred from the saucy. In this vast tapestry of beliefs, where some find enlightenment in ancient texts and others in a heaping plate of pasta, who's to say which nourishes the soul more? The Church serves as a flavorful critique of religious rigidity, urging us to question our biases and ponder the true essence of spirituality. Amidst our culture's commercialized spirituality and fast-food devotion, it reminds us to savor the experience, whether it's an ancient scripture or a bowl of spaghetti. So, as the mayor debates the Church's legitimacy, let's reflect on our beliefs: Are they genuinely nourishing our souls or just filling our bellies? Ultimately, whether we find meaning in age-old doctrines or a plate of spaghetti, what truly matters is that we find meaning.
How have the criteria for defining a religion evolved in Western civilization since 1500 CE, and should movements like the Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster be considered legitimate religions?
Need help? Remember the Discussion Board Rubric.
THE RUNDOWN
The Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster—a culinary creed that even the most devout non-believers can't resist. Our mayor, ever the bureaucratic mastermind, finds himself in a tangle of noodle knots, struggling to tell the sacred from the saucy. In this vast tapestry of beliefs, where some find enlightenment in ancient texts and others in a heaping plate of pasta, who's to say which nourishes the soul more? The Church serves as a flavorful critique of religious rigidity, urging us to question our biases and ponder the true essence of spirituality. Amidst our culture's commercialized spirituality and fast-food devotion, it reminds us to savor the experience, whether it's an ancient scripture or a bowl of spaghetti. So, as the mayor debates the Church's legitimacy, let's reflect on our beliefs: Are they genuinely nourishing our souls or just filling our bellies? Ultimately, whether we find meaning in age-old doctrines or a plate of spaghetti, what truly matters is that we find meaning.
Hey, welcome to the work cited section! Here's where you'll find all the heavy hitters that inspired the content you've just consumed. Some might think citations are as dull as unbuttered toast, but nothing gets my intellectual juices flowing like a good reference list. Don't get me wrong, just because we've cited a source; doesn't mean we're always going to see eye-to-eye. But that's the beauty of it - it's up to you to chew on the material and come to conclusions. Listen, we've gone to great lengths to ensure these citations are accurate, but let's face it, we're all human. So, give us a holler if you notice any mistakes or suggest more sources. We're always looking to up our game. Ultimately, it's all about pursuing knowledge and truth.
Work Cited:
Work Cited:
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