The Age of Enlightenment

DESCRIPTION:
Political, social, and economic problems on the European continent from the time of Louis XIV to the end of the Napoleonic era. Causes, events, and results of the French Revolution.

RATIONALE: 
This course provides the necessary background to nineteenth- and twentieth-century Europe. Because the course deals with the period that ushered in modernism in Europe and the Middle East, it should be valuable not only to all students of history, but also to those studying philosophy, sociology and literature.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: 
As a result of taking this course, the student should be able to:
1. Demonstrate an understanding of the value of logic and reason.
2. Compare and contrast Absolutism and Enlightenment.
3. Evaluate the historical contribution of the middle class.
4. Interpret the basic ideas of Enlightenment philosophies.
5. Outline the efforts made toward the achievement of a united Europe.
6. Assess the impact of the upheavals of the Napoleonic era on the world at the time, and immediately thereafter.

METHOD OF TEACHING AND LEARNING:
In congruence with the teaching and learning strategy of the college, the following tools are used:
- Classes consist of lectures and interactive learning (class discussions on contemporary as well as historical cases).
- Office hours: Students are encouraged to make full use of the office hours of their instructor, where they can discuss the course material.
- Use of a Blackboard site, where instructors can post lecture notes assignment instructions, timely announcements, and additional resources.
- Use of library facilities: Students are encouraged to make use of the library facilities for further study as well as for preparation for the exams.