HIST 367-01, Modern European Intellectual History, Spring 2000

Abstract

This course will introduce students to some of the main currents of European thought since the eighteenth century. Some general familiarity with the course of European history during this period is assumed; students unacquainted with modern European history will be expected to do extra reading on their own. Although there will be some lectures, the emphasis will be on extensive readings of works by leading intellectuals in order to introduce students to the critical reading of historical documents and to familiarize them with the varieties of European thought in the modern era. It is expected that students will leave this course with a firm understanding of the main developments and key figures of modern European intellectual history. Students will also be introduced to the task of writing critical historical essays on intellectual topics.