Time Schedule:
Joel T Walker
HIST 388
Seattle Campus
Introduction to the discipline of history for new or prospective majors. Emphasizes the basic skills of reading, analysis, and communication (both verbal and written) that are central to the historian's craft. Each seminar discusses a different subject or problem.
Class description
Jerusalem: From King David to the Crusades
The course explores the history of Jerusalem and the Holy Land from the Israelite period to the Crusades. This is a Junior seminar designed for History majors, but there may be a few spots also for students from other majors.
Student learning goals
Students will learn about the place of Jerusalem in the formative history of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
Participants will gain experience analyzing different types of literary and documentary sources.
Students will practice engaging in thoughtful debate about the history of Jerusalem and explore how different constructions of this history relate to modern religious and ideological debates.
Some sessions of the seminar will emphasize collaborative work, a good chance to learn from your peers even when you disagree with them or have divergent interests.
General method of instruction
Discussion of assigned reading. Some presentations by instructors and class members.
Recommended preparation
None other than intellectual curiosity and willingness to work hard. One or more previous courses in ancient or medieval history recommended.
Class assignments and grading
Frequent short writing assignments (1 page), one presentation, and one longer paper (8-12 pages) due at the end of the quarter.
Participation 25% Short papers 50% Long paper 25%
