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HUMN100 Introduction to Humanities (3 cr.)
An introduction to the humanities through a review of some of the major developments in human culture. The goal is to promote analysis of underlying assumptions about the way societies are formed and run and how they express their ideas through art, literature, architecture, music, and philosophy. Students develop the conceptual tools to understand cultural phenomena critically.
HUMN101 Introduction to Ancient Egypt (3 cr.)
A survey of ancient Egyptian society from neolithic times to the death of Cleopatra in 30 B.C. Emphasis is on early Egypt--the Old, Middle, and New Kingdoms. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: ANCS 110 or HUMN 101.
HUMN102 Classical Foundations (3 cr.)
A study of aspects of the ancient Greco-Roman world (such as myth and religion, war and conquest, government and politics, social organization, and leisure activities) through examination of the words and actions of the protagonists. Original sources of history, philosophy, poetry, and drama are consulted. Focus is on individuals who contributed to the shaping of classical civilization. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: CLAS 100 or HUMN 102.
HUMN103 Greek and Roman Mythology (3 cr.)
A study of the major gods and goddesses of ancient Greece, as examined through the legends and stories of both Greek and Roman authors of ancient history. The stories of the major heroes and heroic events are also studied.
HUMN105 Intro to Archaeology (3 cr.)
An introduction to the methods used by archaeologists to evacuate and date material, and to the ancient cultures of the Near East, Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Students may receive credit for only of the following courses: ARCH 100 or HUMN 105.
HUMN120 America in Perspective (3 cr.)
A survey of the second hundred years of the history of the United States, beginning in 1877 with the closing of the American frontier and the move into industrialization. Review covers crucial events and issues in recent history including the Great Depression, the rise of big business, Roosevelt's New Deal, World Wars I and II, the Cold War, the Vietnam War, the civil rights movement, and the end of the Cold War. The complex forces and events that have determined the course of modern American history and shaped America as it is today are traced and interpreted. Students may receive credit only once under this course number and for only one of the following courses: HIST 157 or HUMN 120.
HUMN127 World Religions (3 cr.)
An introduction to the major religious traditions of the world that have given shape to human culture and continue to exert a powerful influence on the destiny of the world. Focus is on Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, Islam, Judaism, Christianity, and other modern religions. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: HUMN 127 or RLST 125.
HUMN198 Special Topics in Humanities (3 cr.)
A study of selected topics in the humanities. Students may receive credit for a given topic in either HUMN 198 or HUMN 398 only once.
HUMN198A Lit of the Americas: An Interdiscip Perspective (6 cr.)
An exploration of major themes that pervade Latin American, African American, and Canadian fiction. In Latin American cultures, the central themes are myth, history, and dictatorship; in African American cultures, the themes are cultural conflict and the quest for identity; in Canadian cultures, the themes are alienation and the meaning of wilderness. Interpretation of selected works involves their historical context as well as literary aspects. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: HUMN 198A or HUMN 398A.
HUMN198B Popular Culture in 20th Century America (3 cr.)
A study of American popular culture. Topics include the popularity and influence of icons like Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, John Wayne, Marilyn Monroe, Babe Ruth, Michael Jordan and the Simpsons; the role of race, gender, economic class, and age; and popular culture as an expression of freedom, unity, and individualism or of crass materialism, corporate domination, and declining moral values. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: HUMN 198B or HUMN 398B.
HUMN198C Cultural Studies: Cambridge (3 cr.)
An introduction to the city and the University of Cambridge. Topics include the origins of the city; the rise of the University and its colleges; the development and function of buildings, chapels, dining halls, gardens, and other academic institutions; and the character of student life during the past and in the present. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: HUMN 198C or HUMN 398C.
HUMN198D The Bullfight in Spanish Life and Culture (1 cr.)
A survey of the historical, social, and artistic importance of the bullfight in Spain. The bullfight is examined both as a reflection of and as an influence on Spanish culture. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: HUMN 198D or HUMN 398D.
HUMN198F Mark Twain in Heidelberg (1 cr.)
A study of the literary and historical merits of Mark Twain's work during his "Heidelberg" period. Focus is on A Tramp Abroad. Romance and realism are studied through architecture and museum tours. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: HUMN 198F or HUMN 398F.
HUMN198G Films of Alfred Hitchcock (1 cr.)
An examination of the ideas and techniques of one of the century's greatest film directors, Alfred Hitchcock. Topics include Hitchcock's evolution as a filmmaker and his film techniques. Three of his best-known American films, (Rear Window, North By Northwest, and Psycho) are viewed and discussed. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: HUMN 198G or HUMN 398G.
HUMN198H Films of Woody Allen (1 cr.)
A detailed examination of the films of Woody Allen, beginning with the early comedies and progressing to the later dramatic films. The films' development, construction, motifs, critical and popular success are explored. Topics include Allen's influences; the nature and subjects of his comedy; his use of narrative; and recurrent themes of sex, love, death, psychoanalysis, and New York City. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: HUMN 198H or HUMN 398H.
HUMN198J Fortresses on the Rhine (1 cr.)
An overview of more than 21 castles on the Rhine. Firsthand study of the Castle of St. Mark (Marksburg), the best preserved castle on the Rhine, is included. The siege of a castle is discussed.
HUMN198L Integrated European Studies II (3 cr.)
An in-depth study of selected topics in European history and politics, European life and culture, European languages and literature, or contemporary European issues.
HUMN198N Beginning Egyptian Hieroglyphs (1 cr.)
An introduction to the ancient Egyptian writing system and rudiments of grammar. Focus is on the grammar of simple sentences, as well as the basic phrases and formulae that are found in ancient Egyptian inscriptions. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: ARCH 198 or HUMN 198N.
HUMN198P Arts in Germany (3 cr.)
A survey of German art, architecture, and music. Topics include baroque, religious, secular, and romantic art; Gothic, Romanesque, and modern German architecture; and the music of Bach, Beethoven, Brahms, Hayden, Liszt, Mendelssohn, Mozart, Schubert, Schumann, and Wagner.
HUMN198R Pursuit of Happiness: Conflicting Visions Values (3 cr.)
An exploration of the pursuit of happiness. Focus is on cultural, moral, spiritual, technological, and economic influences on happiness. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: HUMN 198R or HUMN 398R.
HUMN204 Film and American Culture Studies (3 cr.)
Exploration of the American film from a historical perspective, illustrating the motion picture's role as an institutional phenomenon, as a form of communication, and as a source of cross-cultural study. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: AMST 204 or HUMN 204.
HUMN205 Roman Archaeology (3 cr.)
A study of the cultures of ancient Italy. Evidence provided by architectural, sculptural, and other remains are used to examine the Romans and the Etruscans. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: ARCH 201 or HUMN 205.
HUMN231 Introduction to British Culture (3 cr.)
A historical introduction to the development of London, illustrating the city's dominant role in British life and culture. Topics include the different communities, the media, architecture, the relationship between the community and the arts, environmental issues, as well as the political and commercial life of the city. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: GNED 288 or HUMN 231.
HUMN301 Crossing Cultures: World Views in the Humanities (6 cr.)
An examination of Western and non-Western roots of human identity viewed from philosophical, cultural, and intellectual perspectives. The ways in which different peoples express their essential intellectual heritage through philosophy, religion, and the arts are studied. Ideas and cultural expression from specific areas of the world, from antiquity through 1750, are explored. Areas covered are Africa, the Middle East, South Asia, the Far East, the Americas, and Europe. Outcomes of cross-cultural interaction are considered.
HUMN305 Archaeology of Ancient Egypt (3 cr.)
A study of Egyptian life from 4000 B.C. until the Roman period. Emphasis is on the architecture, sculpture, and painting of the Old, Middle, and New Kingdoms. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: ARCH 310 or HUMN 305.
HUMN311 Workplace Ethics (3 cr.)
Examination and discussion of normative ethical theory, moral reasoning, and the larger economic, social, political, and legal framework of the workplace within which ethical issues arise. From this basis, workplace issues such as discrimination, harassment, the quality of work life, professional rights and responsibilities, and specific cases exemplifying these issues are discussed. Possible examples include cases in the areas of hiring; privacy, intellectual property, whistle-blowing versus loyalty, health care, ethics in advertising, consumerism in relation to product liability, economic globalization, and the common environment. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: HUMN 310 or HUMN 311.
HUMN312 Ethics and Religion (3 cr.)
An exploration of the roles religions around the world play in the establishment of the moral codes in the societies where they are practiced and the results when different religions promote different moral responses in the same society. Discussion covers the relationships, if any, of ethics--the search for general principles that underlie specific moral rules or claims--to the different religions that express these moral codes.
HUMN334 Understanding Movies (3 cr.)
An analysis of one of the most important means of artistic expression of the 20th century. The goal is to acquire a deeper understanding of the aesthetic qualities of film by considering the stylistic elements of film as it has evolved throughout the century and weighing the special relationship between cinema and literature. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: HUMN 334 or HUMN 498D.
HUMN336 Ideas Shaping the 21st Century (6 cr.)
An overview of predominating ideas and philosophies that may govern and alter humanity and this planet in the early 21st century. Ideas and ways of living are evaluated insofar as they reveal the nature of intelligence and at the same time determine the uses of this planet. Topics include the rise of science, religions, and technoconsciousness; the development of systems of communication; prevailing perceptions of justice and human relationships; and "quality of life" as expressed in architecture and the arts.
HUMN339 Aging in Literature, Film, and the Arts (3 cr.)
A critical examination of the experience of aging as portrayed in literature, film, and the arts in different countries. The experiences of older adults are explored as they relate to identity, intimacy, friendships, prejudice or discrimination, family, intergenerational relationships, health, independence, social roles, grieving, and end-of-life issues.
HUMN350 The Religious Quest (6 cr.)
A comparative exploration of aspects of several religions, emphasizing specific forms of expression and practice. Focus is on the major faiths of the world in terms of numbers of adherents: Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and religions of China and Japan. An interdisciplinary approach is used to deal with the religions in their historical, social, literary, artistic, philosophical, and theological aspects.
HUMN351 Myth and Culture (3 cr.)
A presentation of reflections on the interrelations of myth, religion, and culture in which myths are evaluated as embodiments of ethnic and universal ideas. Religion is analyzed within American and non-American cultures. Ideas and symbols from mythology that provide background for literature, music, and art are introduced.
HUMN370 Humanity of Language (3 cr.)
A study of linguistics that examines the symbolic structure of human language. Language is explored in terms of sound, word, sentence, and meaning; spoken and written language are compared in different societies and eras. Fundamental questions related to the human experience with language are addressed.
HUMN375 Social History of Washington, D.C. (3 cr.)
A study of the uniqueness of Washington, D.C., through its artistic, architectural, cultural, social, political, and economic history. Washington is examined as a center of power and decision making as well as the domicile of some of the nation's least empowered citizens; home to monuments, museums, and statuary commemorating visionary leaders as well as a seedbed of avant-garde artistic movements; and as an urban center built upon limited industrial growth. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: HIST 351, HUMN 375, or HUMN 498C.
HUMN376 Social History of a Region (3 cr.)
An integrated study of the artistic, architectural, cultural, social, political, economic, and military history of a city or region. The place and its unique history determine the focus or foci. The different aspects of the place are studied through reading, lecture, and site tours.
HUMN376A Social History of Annapolis (3 cr.)
A study of the artistic, architectural, cultural, social, political, economic, and military history of Annapolis, one of the oldest cities in the United States. Annapolis is examined in relation to the Chesapeake Bay, as a naval center, as a center of government with the oldest state capitol building, and as a center of the slave trade that became home to early "free men of color" before the Civil War. Archaeological and preservation sites are toured.
HUMN376B Social History of Baltimore (3 cr.)
A study of the artistic, architectural, cultural, social, political, and economic history of Baltimore. The fifth largest U.S. port, Baltimore is examined as an urban center historically connected by its harbor to Europe and the world and by canal and railroad to the interior. Topics include the creation of culturally distinct neighborhoods of rural and immigrant groups, early industrial operations in milling and canning, and the effects of fire and the Depression. The complex forces of urban revitalization are studied. Archaeological and preservation sites are toured.
HUMN398 Advanced Special Topics in Humanities (6 cr.)
A study of selected topics in the humanities. Assignments include advanced reading and research. Students may receive credit for a given topic in either HUMN 198 or HUMN 398 only once.
HUMN398 Special Topics in the Humanities (0 cr.)
No Course Description Available.
HUMN398A Literature of the Americas: An Interdisc Perspec (6 cr.)
An exploration of major themes that pervade Latin American, African American, and Canadian fiction. In Latin American cultures, the central themes are myth, history, and dictatorship; in African American cultures, the themes are cultural conflict and the quest for identity; in Canadian cultures, the themes are alienation and the meaning of wilderness. Interpretation of selected works involves their historical context as well as literary aspects. Assignments include advanced reading and research. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: HUMN 198A or HUMN 398A.
HUMN398B Popular Culture in Contemporary America (3 cr.)
A study of American popular culture. Topics include the popularity and influence of icons like Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, John Wayne, Marilyn Monroe, Babe Ruth, Michael Jordan and the Simpsons; the role of race, gender, economic class, and age; and popular culture as an expression of freedom, unity, and individualism or one of crass materialism, corporate domination, and declining moral values. Assignments include advanced reading and research. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: HUMN 198B or HUMN 398B.
HUMN398C Cultural Studies: Cambridge (3 cr.)
An introduction to the city and the University of Cambridge. Topics include the origins of the city; the rise of the University and its colleges; the development and function of buildings, chapels, dining halls, gardens, and other academic institutions; and the character of student life during the past and in the present. Assignments include advanced reading and research. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: HUMN 198C or HUMN 398C.
HUMN398D The Bullfight in Spanish Life and Culture (1 cr.)
A survey of the historical, social, and artistic importance of the bullfight in Spain. The bullfight is examined both as a reflection of and as an influence on Spanish culture. Assignments include advanced reading and research. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: HUMN 198D or HUMN 398D.
HUMN398F Mark Twain in Heidelberg (1 cr.)
A study of the literary and historical merits of Mark Twain's work during his "Heidelberg" period. Focus is on A Tramp Abroad. Romance and realism are studied through architecture and museum tours. Assignments include advanced reading and research. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: HUMN 198F or HUMN 398F.
HUMN398G Films of Alfred Hitchcock (1 cr.)
An examination of the ideas and techniques of one of the century's greatest film directors, Alfred Hitchcock. Topics include Hitchcock's evolution as a filmmaker and his film techniques. Three of his best-known American films, (Rear Window, North By Northwest, and Psycho) are viewed and discussed. Assignments include advanced reading and research. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: HUMN 198G or HUMN 398G.
HUMN398H Films of Woody Allen (1 cr.)
A detailed examination of the films of Woody Allen, beginning with the early comedies and progressing to the later dramatic films. The films' development, construction, motifs, critical and popular success are explored. Topics include Allen's influences; the nature and subjects of his comedy; his use of narrative; and recurrent themes of sex, love, death, psychoanalysis, and New York City. Assignments include advanced reading and research. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: HUMN 198H or HUMN 398H.
HUMN398N Contemporary American Film Industry (1 cr.)
An analysis of contemporary cinema by comparing it with earlier American film trends and influences. Emphasis is on film school directors of the seventies, television's MTV and advertising, and speculating on U.S. film in the 21st century. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: HUMN 398N and RTVF 390.
HUMN398O American Film Genre Evolution (1 cr.)
An examination of the idea of genre in the American cinema. Focus is on the definition, history, and future direction of film noir, the romantic comedy, the western, and the combat film. Classic clips and complete films by Altman, Eastwood, Lucas, Scorsese, Spielberg, and Tarantino are discussed.
HUMN398P Independent Cinema in America (1 cr.)
A study of independent U.S. filmmakers, focusing on their first works. The pioneering groundwork of John Cassavettes is compared to the present efforts of directors represented at the Sundance Film Festival. Topics include the aesthetics, the heart, and the negotiations that make up the world of independent cinema.
HUMN398R Pursuit of Happiness: Conflicting Visions Values (3 cr.)
An exploration of the pursuit of happiness. Focus is on cultural, moral, spiritual, technological, and economic influences on happiness. Assignments include advanced reading and research. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: HUMN 198R or HUMN 398R.
HUMN399 Independent Study in Humanities (6 cr.)
(For advanced students.) Directed independent study of topics of special interest not covered by regularly scheduled courses. May be repeated to a maximum of 6 credits when topics differ.
HUMN442 Contemporary Sexual Ethics (3 cr.)
An inquiry into ethical considerations of contemporary sexual behavior. Topics include the changing dynamics between male and female (modes, expectations, and codes); the increase of sexual activity and freedom (premarital, postmarital, and extramarital); laws, such as those concerning abortion, homosexuality, and rape (whether outside or within marriage); the sexual rights of women; and speculations about ethical dimensions of human sexual activity in the future.
HUMN486A Internship in Humanities Through Co-op (3 cr.)
Prerequisite: Formal admission to the Co-op program (program requirements are listed on p. 00). An opportunity to combine academic theory with new, career-related experience in the humanities. At least 12 hours per week must be devoted to new tasks for a minimum of 180 hours during the Co-op session; four new tasks must be delineated in the Learning Proposal; and the course requirements must be completed. May be repeated upon approval of a new Learning Proposal that demonstrates new tasks and objectives related to the humanities and that continues to advance application of academic theory in the workplace. Students may earn up to 15 semester hours in all internship coursework through Co-op toward a first bachelor's degree and up to 9 semester hours toward a second bachelor's degree. Co-op credits may not be used for general education requirements and, unless otherwise specified, no more than 6 Co-op credits may be used in the academic major and minor (combined).
HUMN486B Internship in Humanities Through Co-op (6 cr.)
Prerequisite: Formal admission to the Co-op program (program requirements are listed on p. 00). An opportunity to combine academic theory with new, career-related experience in the humanities. At least 20 hours per week must be devoted to new tasks for a total of 300 hours during the Co-op session; five to eight new tasks must be delineated in the Learning Proposal; and the course requirements must be completed. May be repeated upon approval of a new Learning Proposal that demonstrates new tasks and objectives related to the humanities and that continues to advance application of academic theory in the workplace. Students may earn up to 15 semester hours in all internship coursework through Co-op toward a first bachelor's degree and up to 9 semester hours toward a second bachelor's degree. Co-op credits may not be used for general education requirements and, unless otherwise specified, no more than 6 Co-op credits may be used in the academic major and minor (combined).