HST 150 Module #15
Cave Drawings to Kindle Fires
The annals of ancient and medieval literature give us a bounteous trove of knowledge concerning the world's history. These accounts, penned by authors of yore and erudite scholars of the Middle Ages, offer us a glimpse into the customs, ethics, and convictions of diverse people throughout history. These texts also expose the moments of triumph and anguish that forged the landscape of our present world. In this module, we will scrutinize several pivotal works of ancient and medieval literature that bear upon global history and explain why examining them is imperative for comprehending the present-day milieu.
The "Epic of Gilgamesh" is a mighty tale from the dusty old days of Mesopotamia, way back in the third millennium BCE. This epic poem follows the grand escapades of Gilgamesh, the king of Uruk, as he sets out to hunt down the elusive elixir of immortality. But as he journeys through the unknown, Gilgamesh discovers the true worth of companionship and the inescapable grip of death. This old yarn also offers a glimpse into those long-gone Mesopotamians' curious customs and convictions.
The "Iliad" is an epic poem attributed to the one and only Homer, a poet from ancient Greece. This masterpiece tells the tale of the Trojan War, a battle immortalized in countless works of art and literature. But the "Iliad" takes us deeper, my friends, delving into the heroism of one of the greatest warriors of all time, Achilles. But it's not just a tale of bravery and courage, my fellow highbrows. No, the "Iliad" is a complex exploration of some of the most profound themes of humanity. It examines the very nature of honor, revenge, and the destructive power of war itself. Scholars and enthusiasts have studied the "Iliad," marveling at its language and structure and exploring its place in history for centuries. It's a masterpiece, my fellow wanderers, a true gem of literature that has stood the test of time and will continue to do so for generations to come.
If we want to understand the Middle Ages, we must deeply dive into their literature. And the "Divine Comedy" by Dante Alighieri is the crown jewel of medieval works. This epic poem is a roadmap of Dante's journey through Hell, Purgatory, and Heaven.
But don't consider it a mere travelogue; it's more than that. The poem explores complex Christian concepts such as sin and redemption, and it takes us on a visceral journey through the afterlife that is both terrifying and awe-inspiring.
So, why should we care about this medieval masterpiece? For starters, it gives us a window into the moral and religious values of the time. And Dante's vivid descriptions of the afterlife can tell us a lot about how people viewed death and the divine.
But more than that, the "Divine Comedy" is a timeless work that speaks to universal themes and questions about the human condition. If you haven't read it yet, do yourself a favor and pick up a copy. It's a journey you will remember.
The English bard Geoffrey Chaucer penned a crucial tome of the medieval era - the "Canterbury Tales." This yarn charts the exploits of a posse of pilgrims en route to pay homage at the sacred shrine of Saint Thomas Becket in Canterbury. And as they make their way, each member regales the rest with a story, revealing a vivid peek into the daily realities of folks from varying societal strata and lines of work in ye olde England.
In literature, we find an intriguing array of stories that capture the complexities of human experience. These tales, filled with light and shadow, reveal the many facets of our existence. Take, for instance, the "Epic of Gilgamesh," which illuminates the profound value of friendship yet confronts us with the harsh reality of death's inevitability. Or consider the "Iliad," which exalts the heroic deeds of Achilles while simultaneously laying bare the terrible devastation wrought by war. Similarly, Dante's "Divine Comedy" delves into the depths of sin and the potential for redemption yet unearths the graphic horrors of Hell's punishments. And in Chaucer's "Canterbury Tales," we encounter a colorful panorama of medieval life but also confront the insidious corruption and greed that lurks within us all. Such works of literature remind us that the human experience is a complex tapestry woven from light and dark threads.
Why do we have to study old books, huh? Well, let me tell you, my friend, it's all about gettin' a sneak peek into the minds of the folks from way back when. It's like lookin' through a window into their world, seein' what made them tick, what they held dear, what made them laugh or cry.
And that's not all. These old stories they got lessons for us, too. Triumphs and tragedies, all wrapped up nice and neat in their pages. They show us how the world we got today was shaped by what came before.
So, yeah, we have to crack open those dusty tomes and give them a read. Because if we don't understand where we came from, we'll never figure out where we're goin'.
As I wrap up this literary journey, it's clear that ancient and medieval literature offers a window into the past that can't be beaten. From the "Epic of Gilgamesh" to the "Canterbury Tales," these works reveal the heart and soul of civilizations long gone. Whether it's the heroics of Achilles in the "Iliad" or Dante's descent into the underworld in the "Divine Comedy," we can't help but be moved by the passions and beliefs of our forebears. By delving into these works, we gain a greater appreciation for the joys and sorrows that have shaped our world.
THE RUNDOWN
QUESTIONS
The annals of ancient and medieval literature give us a bounteous trove of knowledge concerning the world's history. These accounts, penned by authors of yore and erudite scholars of the Middle Ages, offer us a glimpse into the customs, ethics, and convictions of diverse people throughout history. These texts also expose the moments of triumph and anguish that forged the landscape of our present world. In this module, we will scrutinize several pivotal works of ancient and medieval literature that bear upon global history and explain why examining them is imperative for comprehending the present-day milieu.
The "Epic of Gilgamesh" is a mighty tale from the dusty old days of Mesopotamia, way back in the third millennium BCE. This epic poem follows the grand escapades of Gilgamesh, the king of Uruk, as he sets out to hunt down the elusive elixir of immortality. But as he journeys through the unknown, Gilgamesh discovers the true worth of companionship and the inescapable grip of death. This old yarn also offers a glimpse into those long-gone Mesopotamians' curious customs and convictions.
The "Iliad" is an epic poem attributed to the one and only Homer, a poet from ancient Greece. This masterpiece tells the tale of the Trojan War, a battle immortalized in countless works of art and literature. But the "Iliad" takes us deeper, my friends, delving into the heroism of one of the greatest warriors of all time, Achilles. But it's not just a tale of bravery and courage, my fellow highbrows. No, the "Iliad" is a complex exploration of some of the most profound themes of humanity. It examines the very nature of honor, revenge, and the destructive power of war itself. Scholars and enthusiasts have studied the "Iliad," marveling at its language and structure and exploring its place in history for centuries. It's a masterpiece, my fellow wanderers, a true gem of literature that has stood the test of time and will continue to do so for generations to come.
If we want to understand the Middle Ages, we must deeply dive into their literature. And the "Divine Comedy" by Dante Alighieri is the crown jewel of medieval works. This epic poem is a roadmap of Dante's journey through Hell, Purgatory, and Heaven.
But don't consider it a mere travelogue; it's more than that. The poem explores complex Christian concepts such as sin and redemption, and it takes us on a visceral journey through the afterlife that is both terrifying and awe-inspiring.
So, why should we care about this medieval masterpiece? For starters, it gives us a window into the moral and religious values of the time. And Dante's vivid descriptions of the afterlife can tell us a lot about how people viewed death and the divine.
But more than that, the "Divine Comedy" is a timeless work that speaks to universal themes and questions about the human condition. If you haven't read it yet, do yourself a favor and pick up a copy. It's a journey you will remember.
The English bard Geoffrey Chaucer penned a crucial tome of the medieval era - the "Canterbury Tales." This yarn charts the exploits of a posse of pilgrims en route to pay homage at the sacred shrine of Saint Thomas Becket in Canterbury. And as they make their way, each member regales the rest with a story, revealing a vivid peek into the daily realities of folks from varying societal strata and lines of work in ye olde England.
In literature, we find an intriguing array of stories that capture the complexities of human experience. These tales, filled with light and shadow, reveal the many facets of our existence. Take, for instance, the "Epic of Gilgamesh," which illuminates the profound value of friendship yet confronts us with the harsh reality of death's inevitability. Or consider the "Iliad," which exalts the heroic deeds of Achilles while simultaneously laying bare the terrible devastation wrought by war. Similarly, Dante's "Divine Comedy" delves into the depths of sin and the potential for redemption yet unearths the graphic horrors of Hell's punishments. And in Chaucer's "Canterbury Tales," we encounter a colorful panorama of medieval life but also confront the insidious corruption and greed that lurks within us all. Such works of literature remind us that the human experience is a complex tapestry woven from light and dark threads.
Why do we have to study old books, huh? Well, let me tell you, my friend, it's all about gettin' a sneak peek into the minds of the folks from way back when. It's like lookin' through a window into their world, seein' what made them tick, what they held dear, what made them laugh or cry.
And that's not all. These old stories they got lessons for us, too. Triumphs and tragedies, all wrapped up nice and neat in their pages. They show us how the world we got today was shaped by what came before.
So, yeah, we have to crack open those dusty tomes and give them a read. Because if we don't understand where we came from, we'll never figure out where we're goin'.
As I wrap up this literary journey, it's clear that ancient and medieval literature offers a window into the past that can't be beaten. From the "Epic of Gilgamesh" to the "Canterbury Tales," these works reveal the heart and soul of civilizations long gone. Whether it's the heroics of Achilles in the "Iliad" or Dante's descent into the underworld in the "Divine Comedy," we can't help but be moved by the passions and beliefs of our forebears. By delving into these works, we gain a greater appreciation for the joys and sorrows that have shaped our world.
THE RUNDOWN
- Ancient and medieval literature provides insights into history, cultures, values, and beliefs of people from different times and places.
- Key works of ancient literature include the "Epic of Gilgamesh" and the "Iliad," while medieval literature includes the "Divine Comedy" and the "Canterbury Tales."
- These works depict events with positive and negative aspects, offering a glimpse into the triumphs and tragedies that have shaped the world we live in today.
- Studying ancient and medieval literature is crucial for understanding the present, as it provides a historical and cultural context of our own time and place.
QUESTIONS
- In what ways do these works of literature depict events that have both positive and negative aspects? How can we learn from the triumphs and tragedies portrayed in these works?
- Can the study of ancient and medieval literature help us to better understand cultural diversity and cross-cultural communication? How can this knowledge be applied in today's world?
- What are some challenges and limitations of studying ancient and medieval literature? How can we overcome these obstacles to gain a better understanding of these works?
#15: Don't Lose Your Humanity
It's important not to forget our human side. Stories and personal experiences can teach us much about society, culture, and money, even if they're not based on science. Experts are now studying these stories to see how much we can learn from them. For instance, a quote is often wrongly attributed to Joseph Stalin: "The death of one man is a tragedy; the death of millions is a statistic."
Here's an exercise to help us understand why anecdotes are valuable. Imagine one dead body, then two, then ten, then one hundred, and so on. As the number grows, it becomes harder to comprehend the scale of the problem. When we read that 100,000 civilians died in the US bombing of Tokyo in 1945, it's easy to feel disconnected. But we must remember that these events happened to real people. Anecdotes are crucial for understanding social, cultural, and economic phenomena. They can help us gain insight into historical events that official records may have missed. Anecdotal evidence is more than just storytelling; it's a vital tool for advancing our knowledge of the world.
If you want to know what happened in history, don't rely on those boring stats and official documents. The real meat of the matter lies in the stories of those who lived through it. Take the Holocaust, for instance. We all know about it, sure. But what about the survivors? Their accounts offer a window into the hell they endured. Wanna you talk about insight? Check out Elie Wiesel's "Night." This guy lived through a concentration camp, and his book lays bare the human toll of the Holocaust. Don't be fooled by the sanitized version of history. If you want the truth, you must listen to those there.
The story of the Civil Rights Movement in the United States is not merely a tale of government records and official documents but a saga of the struggles and triumphs of ordinary people. While official records may provide a glimpse into the era, the personal accounts of the activists and participants reveal the true impact of this movement.
One such account is James Baldwin's essay "Notes of a Native Son," which offers a raw and personal reflection on the experience of racial discrimination in America during the Civil Rights Movement. Baldwin's words provide a unique and profound perspective on the movement's impact on individuals and society that cannot be gleaned from official records alone.
Baldwin's writing brings to life the stories of those who fought for civil rights and challenges us to confront the ongoing struggle for racial justice today. Through his eyes, we see the actual human cost of segregation and discrimination and the transformative power of collective action. His words remind us that the fight for equality is far from over and that we must continue to carry the torch of the Civil Rights Movement forward into the future.
Anecdotal evidence - a double-edged sword in the annals of history. Sometimes those personal accounts are as crooked as a dog's hind leg, all twisted and subjective. Take, for instance, those Confederate soldier diaries. Sure, they offer a glimpse into the lives of those fighting men during the Civil War, but they could also be as biased as a fox in a henhouse. We mustn't take them at face value, oh no. It's crucial to keep the context of those accounts in mind and give them an excellent critical eye. Only then can we sift fact from fiction and uncover the truth.
Listen, in this day and age, we're all about that digital communication, scrolling through social media like there's no tomorrow. But let me tell you, we must remember the importance of personal experience when shaping history. Anecdotal evidence is critical, my friends. It reminds us that history is not just a list of dates and facts; it's about the people and their experiences. Digging into those personal accounts, we understand how historical events impacted individuals and society as a whole. Remember to underestimate the power of a good story, especially in history books.
So, here's the deal: the future of history is all about staying connected to our human side. I'm right; empirical evidence is essential and all that jazz. But if you truly want to grasp past events' impact on our world, you have to take a closer look at the human experience. I'm talking about anecdotes, man. Sure, they can be biased, but they also offer a unique insight into history from a human perspective. You know, the good, the bad, and the ugly. By digging into these personal accounts, we can uncover a deeper understanding of how historical events affected individuals and society. By embracing anecdotal evidence, we can unlock a new level of historical knowledge that's more relevant than ever. And that's what it's all about.
THE RUNDOWN
It's important not to forget our human side. Stories and personal experiences can teach us much about society, culture, and money, even if they're not based on science. Experts are now studying these stories to see how much we can learn from them. For instance, a quote is often wrongly attributed to Joseph Stalin: "The death of one man is a tragedy; the death of millions is a statistic."
Here's an exercise to help us understand why anecdotes are valuable. Imagine one dead body, then two, then ten, then one hundred, and so on. As the number grows, it becomes harder to comprehend the scale of the problem. When we read that 100,000 civilians died in the US bombing of Tokyo in 1945, it's easy to feel disconnected. But we must remember that these events happened to real people. Anecdotes are crucial for understanding social, cultural, and economic phenomena. They can help us gain insight into historical events that official records may have missed. Anecdotal evidence is more than just storytelling; it's a vital tool for advancing our knowledge of the world.
If you want to know what happened in history, don't rely on those boring stats and official documents. The real meat of the matter lies in the stories of those who lived through it. Take the Holocaust, for instance. We all know about it, sure. But what about the survivors? Their accounts offer a window into the hell they endured. Wanna you talk about insight? Check out Elie Wiesel's "Night." This guy lived through a concentration camp, and his book lays bare the human toll of the Holocaust. Don't be fooled by the sanitized version of history. If you want the truth, you must listen to those there.
The story of the Civil Rights Movement in the United States is not merely a tale of government records and official documents but a saga of the struggles and triumphs of ordinary people. While official records may provide a glimpse into the era, the personal accounts of the activists and participants reveal the true impact of this movement.
One such account is James Baldwin's essay "Notes of a Native Son," which offers a raw and personal reflection on the experience of racial discrimination in America during the Civil Rights Movement. Baldwin's words provide a unique and profound perspective on the movement's impact on individuals and society that cannot be gleaned from official records alone.
Baldwin's writing brings to life the stories of those who fought for civil rights and challenges us to confront the ongoing struggle for racial justice today. Through his eyes, we see the actual human cost of segregation and discrimination and the transformative power of collective action. His words remind us that the fight for equality is far from over and that we must continue to carry the torch of the Civil Rights Movement forward into the future.
Anecdotal evidence - a double-edged sword in the annals of history. Sometimes those personal accounts are as crooked as a dog's hind leg, all twisted and subjective. Take, for instance, those Confederate soldier diaries. Sure, they offer a glimpse into the lives of those fighting men during the Civil War, but they could also be as biased as a fox in a henhouse. We mustn't take them at face value, oh no. It's crucial to keep the context of those accounts in mind and give them an excellent critical eye. Only then can we sift fact from fiction and uncover the truth.
Listen, in this day and age, we're all about that digital communication, scrolling through social media like there's no tomorrow. But let me tell you, we must remember the importance of personal experience when shaping history. Anecdotal evidence is critical, my friends. It reminds us that history is not just a list of dates and facts; it's about the people and their experiences. Digging into those personal accounts, we understand how historical events impacted individuals and society as a whole. Remember to underestimate the power of a good story, especially in history books.
So, here's the deal: the future of history is all about staying connected to our human side. I'm right; empirical evidence is essential and all that jazz. But if you truly want to grasp past events' impact on our world, you have to take a closer look at the human experience. I'm talking about anecdotes, man. Sure, they can be biased, but they also offer a unique insight into history from a human perspective. You know, the good, the bad, and the ugly. By digging into these personal accounts, we can uncover a deeper understanding of how historical events affected individuals and society. By embracing anecdotal evidence, we can unlock a new level of historical knowledge that's more relevant than ever. And that's what it's all about.
THE RUNDOWN
- When looking at history, we should remember to stay connected to our human feelings.
- Anecdotal evidence is stories that help us learn about a situation affecting society or politics.
- Intelligent people like economists use these stories to determine their importance.
- One quote that people often repeat says that one person's death is a big deal, even if it's not a lot compared to many deaths.
- If we want to understand what happened in history, we shouldn't just look at numbers but try to imagine how it felt for the people involved.
- It's important to remember that things happen to real people, not just as numbers or statistics.
STATE OF THE WORLD
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
- COMING SOON
READING
This class utilizes the following textbook:
Bentley, Jerry. Traditions & Encounter Volume 1 from Beginning to 1500, 7th ed.: McGraw Hill, 2021 .
Jerry H. Bentley was a historian and academic who specialized in world history, with a focus on cultural and economic exchange, comparative history, and the study of empires. He was a professor at the University of Hawaii and served as the President of the American Historical Association. Bentley wrote several books on world history and globalization, including "Old World Encounters" and he made significant contributions to the field. He passed away in 2014.
- Bentley, Chapter 29: The Making of Industrial Society
- Bentley, Chapter 30: The Americas in the Age of Independence
This class utilizes the following textbook:
Bentley, Jerry. Traditions & Encounter Volume 1 from Beginning to 1500, 7th ed.: McGraw Hill, 2021 .
Jerry H. Bentley was a historian and academic who specialized in world history, with a focus on cultural and economic exchange, comparative history, and the study of empires. He was a professor at the University of Hawaii and served as the President of the American Historical Association. Bentley wrote several books on world history and globalization, including "Old World Encounters" and he made significant contributions to the field. He passed away in 2014.
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. You can access the full text of People's History or Patriot's History by clicking on the links.
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. You can access the full text of People's History or Patriot's History by clicking on the links.

Zinn, A People's History of the United States
"... Control in modern times requires more than force, more than law. It requires that a population dangerously concentrated in cities and factories, whose lives are tilled with cause for rebellion, be taught that all is right as it is. And so, the schools, the churches, the popular literature taught that to be rich was a sign of superiority, to be poor a sign of personal failure, and that the only way upward for a poor person was to climb into the ranks of the rich by extraordinary effort and extraordinary luck..."
"... Control in modern times requires more than force, more than law. It requires that a population dangerously concentrated in cities and factories, whose lives are tilled with cause for rebellion, be taught that all is right as it is. And so, the schools, the churches, the popular literature taught that to be rich was a sign of superiority, to be poor a sign of personal failure, and that the only way upward for a poor person was to climb into the ranks of the rich by extraordinary effort and extraordinary luck..."

Larry Schweikart, A Patriot's History of the United States
"..Colonial literature likewise focused on religion or otherwise addressed the needs of common folk. This pattern was set with Bradford’s Of Plymouth Plantation, which related the exciting story of the Pilgrims with an eye to the all-powerful role of God in shaping their destiny. Anne Bradstreet, an accomplished seventeenth-century colonial poet who continued to be popular after her death, also
conveyed religious themes and emphasized divine inspiration of human events. Although literacy was widespread, Americans read mainly the Bible, political tracts, and how-to books on farming, mechanics, and moral improvement—not Greek philosophers or the campaigns of Caesar. Benjamin Franklin’s Autobiography is a classic example of the American penchant for pragmatic literature that continues to this day. Franklin wrote his Autobiography during the pre-Revolutionary era, though it was not published until the nineteenth century. Several generations of American schoolchildren grew up on these tales of his youthful adventures and early career, culminating with his gaining fame as a Pennsylvania printer, writer, scientist, diplomat, and patriot politician. Franklin’s “13 Virtues”—Honesty, Thrift, Devotion, Faithfulness, Trust, Courtesy, Cleanliness, Temperance, Work, Humility, and so on—constituted a list of personal traits aspired to by virtually every Puritan, Quaker, or Catholic in the colonies..."
"..Colonial literature likewise focused on religion or otherwise addressed the needs of common folk. This pattern was set with Bradford’s Of Plymouth Plantation, which related the exciting story of the Pilgrims with an eye to the all-powerful role of God in shaping their destiny. Anne Bradstreet, an accomplished seventeenth-century colonial poet who continued to be popular after her death, also
conveyed religious themes and emphasized divine inspiration of human events. Although literacy was widespread, Americans read mainly the Bible, political tracts, and how-to books on farming, mechanics, and moral improvement—not Greek philosophers or the campaigns of Caesar. Benjamin Franklin’s Autobiography is a classic example of the American penchant for pragmatic literature that continues to this day. Franklin wrote his Autobiography during the pre-Revolutionary era, though it was not published until the nineteenth century. Several generations of American schoolchildren grew up on these tales of his youthful adventures and early career, culminating with his gaining fame as a Pennsylvania printer, writer, scientist, diplomat, and patriot politician. Franklin’s “13 Virtues”—Honesty, Thrift, Devotion, Faithfulness, Trust, Courtesy, Cleanliness, Temperance, Work, Humility, and so on—constituted a list of personal traits aspired to by virtually every Puritan, Quaker, or Catholic in the colonies..."

Thaddeus Russell, A Renegade History of the United States
"...After the American Revolution, as we have seen, doctors and political leaders believed that for the new nation to flourish, its citizens needed to exert strict control over their bodies. Benjamin Rush argued for the abolition of both slavery and masturbation. He penned several tracts opposing the slave trade and many more against the evils posed to the republic by self-pleasuring. Rush spoke for virtually the entire American medical profession when he declared that this 'state of degeneracy' must be avoided by 'close application of the mind to business, or study of any kind.' If the patient still succumbed to temptation, Rush prescribed 'a vegetable diet, temperance, bodily labor, cold baths, avoidance of obscenity, music, a close study of mathematics, military glory, and, if all else failed, castor oil.'
Sex of any kind was considered dangerous at best, and, accordingly, it was hunted down and caged. According to Estelle B. Freedmen and John D’Emilio, authors of Intimate Matters, the leading history of American sexuality, a 'prolific sexual advice literature' in the early nineteenth century 'inundated Americans with the message that bodily well-being required that individuals exercise some measure of control over their sexual desires.' To be sure, many free white Americans violated the norm of sexual control—especially among the new urban working class—but those who did were considered to be not only unworthy of citizenship but also, as we have seen during the early national period, threats to the nation itself..."
"...After the American Revolution, as we have seen, doctors and political leaders believed that for the new nation to flourish, its citizens needed to exert strict control over their bodies. Benjamin Rush argued for the abolition of both slavery and masturbation. He penned several tracts opposing the slave trade and many more against the evils posed to the republic by self-pleasuring. Rush spoke for virtually the entire American medical profession when he declared that this 'state of degeneracy' must be avoided by 'close application of the mind to business, or study of any kind.' If the patient still succumbed to temptation, Rush prescribed 'a vegetable diet, temperance, bodily labor, cold baths, avoidance of obscenity, music, a close study of mathematics, military glory, and, if all else failed, castor oil.'
Sex of any kind was considered dangerous at best, and, accordingly, it was hunted down and caged. According to Estelle B. Freedmen and John D’Emilio, authors of Intimate Matters, the leading history of American sexuality, a 'prolific sexual advice literature' in the early nineteenth century 'inundated Americans with the message that bodily well-being required that individuals exercise some measure of control over their sexual desires.' To be sure, many free white Americans violated the norm of sexual control—especially among the new urban working class—but those who did were considered to be not only unworthy of citizenship but also, as we have seen during the early national period, threats to the nation itself..."
What Does Professor Lancaster Think?
Literature has always been a powerful tool in shaping society's values and norms. In the olden days, ancient and medieval literature emphasized the importance of religious and moral values to keep the masses in check. But then, in post-revolutionary America, literature focused on the individual's ability to control themselves, especially when it comes to sex, to maintain stability and achieve personal success.
However, this emphasis on control and self-restraint ain't all sunshine and rainbows. It has been used to justify oppressive social and economic hierarchies reinforced through popular literature and cultural institutions. This is no joke, folks. It's vital to study this subject and understand how literature has influenced societal norms so that we can recognize the consequences of such influences. Let's keep our eyes peeled and our minds sharp, my friends.
In the annals of ancient and medieval literature, the role of religion in shaping societal values and morals was nothing short of momentous. From the Bible to the Quran to the Bhagavad Gita, religious texts exerted a formidable influence on the populace, leveraging fear of divine punishment to control behavior deemed immoral. For instance, the Ten Commandments of the Bible served as a moral compass for the masses, with far-reaching implications beyond mere religious edicts. Among other things, the Commandments proscribed stealing and killing, thus constituting a social code that extended well beyond the boundaries of faith. Similarly, the Quran's halal-haram dichotomy played a vital role in curbing objectionable behavior, with halal signifying permissible actions and haram standing for prohibited ones. By invoking the concept of haram, the Quran discouraged vices such as alcoholism, premarital sex, and gambling, enshrining societal norms that endure today.
The good ol' days of medieval Europe: The Church held all the cards, shaping society's values and norms with the deftness of a master puppeteer. They controlled the masses through religious texts and teachings and maintained their grip on power. Sin and repentance were their weapons of choice, striking fear into the people's hearts and manipulating their behavior like marionettes on strings. And let's not forget their role as moral watchdogs, regulating everything from sex to trade to the practice of usury. All hail the Church, the ultimate authority in a world gone mad.
As the winds of revolution swept across America, a new literary movement emerged that prized individual self-control above all else: The belief was that personal and societal success hinged on one's ability to harness impulses and exercise discipline in all aspects of life. And who better to embody this ethos than the great Benjamin Franklin himself, whose Autobiography was a testament to the power of self-control?
In those heady days, Franklin's words were like gospel, his advice sought after by all who aspired to greatness, for he knew that the path to success was not easy and required a steadfast commitment to personal morality. And so, he extolled the virtues of self-restraint, particularly in matters of the flesh, as the key to achieving one's goals.
In the end, Franklin's message resonated with a generation eager to prove themselves worthy of the new world they were building. And though times have changed, the value of self-control remains as relevant today as it was back then. In a world of endless distractions and instant gratification, the ability to say no to temptation is a skill that will always stay in style.
Let's unpack this notion of self-control for a moment. This idea of personal responsibility has been wielded to blame individuals for their shortcomings while overlooking the structural factors that play a significant role in their struggles. On the one hand, it's been used to champion a virtuous and disciplined lifestyle, but on the other, it's served as a convenient scapegoat for societal inequities. It's no secret that this sentiment has been perpetuated throughout history, with cultural artifacts like Horatio Alger's rags-to-riches tales further entrenching the notion that anyone can achieve success through sheer willpower and grit, regardless of their socio-economic background.
If you want to dig deep into the fabric of society and understand how it all went down, you must study literature. See, literature has significantly impacted how we live our lives and treat each other, and it's essential to recognize the fallout from that impact. By delving into the pages of the great works, we can trace the evolution of societal values and norms and see how they've been used to justify some truly messed up stuff, like oppression and inequality. But we can't just sit around and stew in that knowledge. No, we have to use that understanding to build a better world where justice and equality are more than just buzzwords. The literature is going to read itself.
Concluding, literature has wielded immense power in molding the values and customs of societies across ages. In the ancient and medieval eras, pious and moral values reigned supreme, aimed at subduing the masses. At the same time, in the wake of the American Revolution, the spotlight turned toward cultivating individual self-restraint. Nonetheless, this emphasis on self-control has been exploited to validate the oppressive social and economic structures. To fathom the literary impact on societal conventions and to discern the outcomes of these impacts, an inquiry into this domain is indispensable in contemporary times.
THE RUNDOWN
QUESTIONS
Literature has always been a powerful tool in shaping society's values and norms. In the olden days, ancient and medieval literature emphasized the importance of religious and moral values to keep the masses in check. But then, in post-revolutionary America, literature focused on the individual's ability to control themselves, especially when it comes to sex, to maintain stability and achieve personal success.
However, this emphasis on control and self-restraint ain't all sunshine and rainbows. It has been used to justify oppressive social and economic hierarchies reinforced through popular literature and cultural institutions. This is no joke, folks. It's vital to study this subject and understand how literature has influenced societal norms so that we can recognize the consequences of such influences. Let's keep our eyes peeled and our minds sharp, my friends.
In the annals of ancient and medieval literature, the role of religion in shaping societal values and morals was nothing short of momentous. From the Bible to the Quran to the Bhagavad Gita, religious texts exerted a formidable influence on the populace, leveraging fear of divine punishment to control behavior deemed immoral. For instance, the Ten Commandments of the Bible served as a moral compass for the masses, with far-reaching implications beyond mere religious edicts. Among other things, the Commandments proscribed stealing and killing, thus constituting a social code that extended well beyond the boundaries of faith. Similarly, the Quran's halal-haram dichotomy played a vital role in curbing objectionable behavior, with halal signifying permissible actions and haram standing for prohibited ones. By invoking the concept of haram, the Quran discouraged vices such as alcoholism, premarital sex, and gambling, enshrining societal norms that endure today.
The good ol' days of medieval Europe: The Church held all the cards, shaping society's values and norms with the deftness of a master puppeteer. They controlled the masses through religious texts and teachings and maintained their grip on power. Sin and repentance were their weapons of choice, striking fear into the people's hearts and manipulating their behavior like marionettes on strings. And let's not forget their role as moral watchdogs, regulating everything from sex to trade to the practice of usury. All hail the Church, the ultimate authority in a world gone mad.
As the winds of revolution swept across America, a new literary movement emerged that prized individual self-control above all else: The belief was that personal and societal success hinged on one's ability to harness impulses and exercise discipline in all aspects of life. And who better to embody this ethos than the great Benjamin Franklin himself, whose Autobiography was a testament to the power of self-control?
In those heady days, Franklin's words were like gospel, his advice sought after by all who aspired to greatness, for he knew that the path to success was not easy and required a steadfast commitment to personal morality. And so, he extolled the virtues of self-restraint, particularly in matters of the flesh, as the key to achieving one's goals.
In the end, Franklin's message resonated with a generation eager to prove themselves worthy of the new world they were building. And though times have changed, the value of self-control remains as relevant today as it was back then. In a world of endless distractions and instant gratification, the ability to say no to temptation is a skill that will always stay in style.
Let's unpack this notion of self-control for a moment. This idea of personal responsibility has been wielded to blame individuals for their shortcomings while overlooking the structural factors that play a significant role in their struggles. On the one hand, it's been used to champion a virtuous and disciplined lifestyle, but on the other, it's served as a convenient scapegoat for societal inequities. It's no secret that this sentiment has been perpetuated throughout history, with cultural artifacts like Horatio Alger's rags-to-riches tales further entrenching the notion that anyone can achieve success through sheer willpower and grit, regardless of their socio-economic background.
If you want to dig deep into the fabric of society and understand how it all went down, you must study literature. See, literature has significantly impacted how we live our lives and treat each other, and it's essential to recognize the fallout from that impact. By delving into the pages of the great works, we can trace the evolution of societal values and norms and see how they've been used to justify some truly messed up stuff, like oppression and inequality. But we can't just sit around and stew in that knowledge. No, we have to use that understanding to build a better world where justice and equality are more than just buzzwords. The literature is going to read itself.
Concluding, literature has wielded immense power in molding the values and customs of societies across ages. In the ancient and medieval eras, pious and moral values reigned supreme, aimed at subduing the masses. At the same time, in the wake of the American Revolution, the spotlight turned toward cultivating individual self-restraint. Nonetheless, this emphasis on self-control has been exploited to validate the oppressive social and economic structures. To fathom the literary impact on societal conventions and to discern the outcomes of these impacts, an inquiry into this domain is indispensable in contemporary times.
THE RUNDOWN
- Literature has shaped societal values and norms throughout history
- Ancient and medieval literature emphasized religious and moral values to control the population
- Post-revolutionary American literature shifted towards individual self-control for personal success and societal stability
- Emphasis on self-control has been used to justify oppressive social and economic hierarchies
- Studying literature is important to understand how it has influenced societal norms and recognize negative consequences
- Understanding literature's impact can help create a more just and equitable society.
QUESTIONS
- How has religion been used to control societal behavior throughout history? In what ways have religious texts been used to enforce moral codes?
- How has literature in post-revolutionary America shifted its focus towards individual self-control? How has this emphasis on self-control been reflected in literature of the time?
- In what ways has the emphasis on self-control been used to justify oppressive social and economic hierarchies? Can you provide examples of literature or cultural institutions that promote this idea?
THE RUNDOWN
The latest visual odyssey delves deep into the elusive world of illuminated manuscripts, those bespoke tomes that served as vessels of medieval culture, art, and history. These gilded and multicolored creations sparkle with a life of their own. And nestled in the heart of Cambridge's Fitzwilliam Museum lies an exhibition presenting these handcrafted marvels' zenith.
The centerpiece of this display is none other than the Macclesfield Salter. This precious manuscript holds 150 Old Testament Psalms within its pages, which acted as a bridge connecting the temporal with the spirit during a time when the world was still struggling to find its footing. One of the fascinating aspects of this manuscript lies in its margins, which offer a tantalizing glimpse into the quirky minds of medieval scribes who, through their subversive marginalia, expressed both devotion and a mischievous irreverence that defied expectations.
But beyond the Macclesfield Salter, this video also sheds light on the widespread appeal of Salters and books of hours during the late Middle Ages, demonstrating how these books became symbolic of a society eager to balance the sacred and the secular. The Fitzwilliam exhibition is a testament to the enduring power of these manuscripts, which continue to captivate and inspire us centuries later.
KEY TERMS
THE RUNDOWN
The latest visual odyssey delves deep into the elusive world of illuminated manuscripts, those bespoke tomes that served as vessels of medieval culture, art, and history. These gilded and multicolored creations sparkle with a life of their own. And nestled in the heart of Cambridge's Fitzwilliam Museum lies an exhibition presenting these handcrafted marvels' zenith.
The centerpiece of this display is none other than the Macclesfield Salter. This precious manuscript holds 150 Old Testament Psalms within its pages, which acted as a bridge connecting the temporal with the spirit during a time when the world was still struggling to find its footing. One of the fascinating aspects of this manuscript lies in its margins, which offer a tantalizing glimpse into the quirky minds of medieval scribes who, through their subversive marginalia, expressed both devotion and a mischievous irreverence that defied expectations.
But beyond the Macclesfield Salter, this video also sheds light on the widespread appeal of Salters and books of hours during the late Middle Ages, demonstrating how these books became symbolic of a society eager to balance the sacred and the secular. The Fitzwilliam exhibition is a testament to the enduring power of these manuscripts, which continue to captivate and inspire us centuries later.
KEY TERMS
- Neolithic Literature
- 3400 BCE: The development of cuneiform writing in Mesopotamia.
- 3rd millennium BCE: The composition of the Epic of Gilgamesh in Mesopotamia.
- 3200 BCE: The development of hieroglyphic writing in ancient Egypt.
- c. 2686–2181 BCE: The composition of the Pyramid Texts during the Old Kingdom period in ancient Egypt.
- c. 1500 BCE: The composition of the Rigveda in ancient India.
- 8th century BCE: The composition of the Iliad and the Odyssey by Homer.
- 5th century BCE: The creation of the Greek tragedy.
- 3rd century BCE: The establishment of the library of Alexandria in Egypt.
- 1st century BCE: The development of the Roman epic, particularly the works of Virgil.
- Over a period of centuries in the ancient Middle East: The production of the Bible.
- c. 975-1025: Beowulf manuscript.
- c. 977-1010: The Shahnameh.
- c. 9th-10th centuries: The Book of One Thousand and One Nights.
- c. 11th-15th centuries: The Arthurian Legends.
- c. 1098-1100: The Song of Roland.
- c. 1200: The Nibelungenlied.
- c. 1308-1320: The Divine Comedy.
- c. 1350-1353: The Decameron.
- c. 1387-1400: The Canterbury Tales.
- c. 1400-1402: The Romance of the Three Kingdoms.
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: "Ancient Literature Charades"
Objective: To engage students in an interactive and fun way to review and recall the key themes and characters from the ancient literature studied in the course.
Instructions:
Activity: Medieval Literature Role Play
Objective: To explore the themes, characters, and societal structures of medieval literature through a role-playing activity.
Instructions:
THE RUNDOWN
Activity: "Ancient Literature Charades"
Objective: To engage students in an interactive and fun way to review and recall the key themes and characters from the ancient literature studied in the course.
Instructions:
- Divide the class into two teams.
- Ask each team to choose a player to act out a character or scene from one of the ancient literature works studied in the course.
- The player can use gestures, facial expressions, and body movements to act out the character or scene without using any props or materials.
- The team members have to guess the name of the character or the title of the work.
- The team that guesses correctly gets a point.
- Rotate players and continue the game until all the major characters and scenes have been covered.
- The team with the highest score at the end of the game wins.
Activity: Medieval Literature Role Play
Objective: To explore the themes, characters, and societal structures of medieval literature through a role-playing activity.
Instructions:
- Divide the class into small groups of 4-5 students each.
- Assign each group a different medieval literary work (such as Beowulf, Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, The Canterbury Tales, or The Divine Comedy).
- Instruct each group to select a leader who will facilitate the role-playing activity.
- Have the group leaders distribute roles to each member of their group (such as a knight, a peasant, a monk, a merchant, etc.). Each member should research their assigned role and come prepared to act out their character in the role-playing activity.
- Provide each group with a prompt that relates to their assigned literary work. For example, if the group is assigned Beowulf, the prompt could be: "Your village is under attack by a monster. As a member of your community, how do you respond?"
- Allow the groups 10-15 minutes to discuss and plan their role-playing scenarios.
- Instruct each group to perform their role-playing scenario for the rest of the class.
- After each group performs, lead a class discussion about the themes, characters, and societal structures that were present in each scenario.
THE RUNDOWN
- Ancient and medieval literature offers insights into history, cultures, values, and beliefs.
- Key works include "Epic of Gilgamesh," "Iliad," "Divine Comedy," and "Canterbury Tales."
- These works depict positive and negative events that have shaped the world.
- Studying ancient and medieval literature provides historical and cultural context for the present.
- Anecdotal evidence and imagining human cost help understand the impact of events.
- Literature has shaped societal values and norms throughout history.
- Post-revolutionary American literature shifted towards individual self-control for success and societal stability.
- Emphasis on self-control can justify oppressive social and economic hierarchies.
- Studying literature's impact can create a more just and equitable society.
ASSIGNMENTS
Remember all assignments, tests and quizzes must be submitted official via BLACKBOARD
- Forum Discussion #16
- QUIZ #5
Remember all assignments, tests and quizzes must be submitted official via BLACKBOARD
Forum Discussion #16
We sure had fun this semester, and grew as people. In one paragraph, describe one thing you enjoyed learning about. If this class was a fate worse than death, describe something you would like to learn about NEXT time?
Need help? Remember the Discussion Board Rubric.
WORK CITED
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, my friends.
LEGAL MUMBO JUMBO
Need help? Remember the Discussion Board Rubric.
WORK CITED
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, my friends.
- Kovacs, Maureen Gallery, translator. "Epic of Gilgamesh." Stanford University Press, 1989.
- Homer. "The Iliad." Translated by Robert Fagles, Penguin Classics, 1998.
- Dante Alighieri. "The Divine Comedy." Translated by Mark Musa, Penguin Classics, 1984.
- Chaucer, Geoffrey. "The Canterbury Tales." Translated by Nevill Coghill, Penguin Classics, 2003.
- Graff, Henry F. "The Uses of Anecdote in Social Science and History." Social Science History 11, no. 4 (1987): 335-371.
- Lerner, Michael. "Anecdotes: A Neglected Resource for Historians." History and Theory 33, no. 4 (1994): 53-63.
- Rosenstone, Robert A. "History in Images/History in Words: Reflections on the Possibility of Really Putting History onto Film." American Historical Review 93, no. 5 (1988): 1173-1185.
- Zinn, Howard. A People's History of the United States. HarperCollins Publishers, 2003.
LEGAL MUMBO JUMBO
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