EUH 2000.05 Term Paper Topics
EUH 2000.05 Term Paper Topics
These are the main questions for each of the seven options from which you selected your individual topics. Your paper should seek to answer or discuss the contents of these questions. If you need assistance, please talk to me.
OPTION ONE:
In anthropology, linguistics or the study of language can serve as a means
to investigate the unspoken past as well as the origins of early civilization
and the ways they communicated. Research the origins of the language. Where
did it likely originate? Is it related to other languages? What are its structures/forms?
How did this language help create the culture in its area (how does the language
reflect its culture)? What cultural groups were associated with its use? Has
this language become obsolete by 2001, either in written or spoken form? Or
is it still used in some form? If so, for what purpose? In the region where
that language developed, has it been replaced with another or has it been altered
in some way? If so, how or why?
OPTION TWO:
Consider the importance of early urban centers in the creation of western
civilization. Research the origins of the city in its earliest days (limit
discussion to 800 c.e. at the latest). Where was it (geography)? Who lived there,
and what were some characteristics of its population/culture? (may include family
life, general language, occupations, religion, gender relations, etc.) What
was the political structure like? (Who was in charge, what kind of laws/customs,
etc.) How did the city conduct trade--any particular goods? who did they trade
with? Does this city still exist? In either case, what happened to it/what is
it now?
OPTION THREE:
Religion had a tremendous impact on the development of western civilization
from its earliest inception. Research the origins of that religion in western
civilization, limiting your search up to 800 c.e. What were the basic beliefs
of this religion? Which group(s) did it emerge from? How and where did this
religion spread? When? Had this religion become obsolete by 800 c.e.? If so,
why? Be sure to discuss at least two ways that this religion shaped regional
power (e.g. one country/empire versus another) in western civilization.
OPTION FOUR:
Contrary to popular belief, the medieval period in western civilization was
neither dark or mentally stunted. In fact, much of the technology of later years
have their roots in the Middle Ages. Identify which field you are discussing,
and which region/period you are focusing on. Discuss at least four inventions/technologies
that developed in this field from 500-1400. Briefly explain what each example
is, how/why it was developed, how it was used, and what effect it had on your
field, positive or negative.
OPTION FIVE:
During the Renaissance, or revival, of western Europe from 1300-1600, new
avenues of thought and art emerged. First, discuss two persons in your category
(may be general or based on real person), giving a brief biography. Then,
identify and discuss at least three examples/works in the field from 1300-1600
that you feel most influenced the development of the field and why. Discuss
each of these works, citing the creator as well as any techniques or approach
used that makes the work stand out. How do these works reflect the society,
behaviors, or time frame in which they were created? What "message"
was its creator attempting to demonstrate?
OPTION SIX:
Western Civilization in the medieval period, 500-1400, saw various waves
of "barbarians" which helped shape the society of Europe and the Mediterranean.
Explain the origins of the group--where are they from (geography) and what
is their ethnic background? What area of Europe and/or the Mediterranean did
they invade or conquer? How did they accomplish this? What kind of resistance
did they encounter and from whom? Discuss at least two customs or laws they
brought with them that have impacted the new area they controlled. Did they
eventually leave or were they incorporated into the existing culture? In either
case, how did it occur?
OPTION SEVEN:
New political structures emerged from 1100-1700 that emphasized the territorial
state and the importance of royal and aristocratic dynasties. Trace the
history of this family dynasty, and make sure to heed the time restraints. Where
did this family hold power--describe it geographically. How did this family
rise to power? Who were their closest relations? What role did they play in
the development of their country? Who were some of its strongest rulers? its
weakest rulers? What are some examples of policies, programs, etc. that this
family employed as their country's representative? Describe changes that occurred
over time for this family as rulers--what accomodations were made if any and
how did this affect their power? Did this family line die out? if so, why?
