Western Civilization
Long Essay (Choose 1 of 3 for 50 points– include specific examples to support your ideas).
Compare and contrast Judaism and Christianity with Mesopotamian, Egyptian, Greek, and Roman religious views. Include the afterlife, major deities, cults, and rites.
Compare and contrast the major political systems we have studied–including Mesopotamian city-states and empires, Egypt, Greek city-states, and Rome from its founding to Justinian.
Compare and contrast the social structures and daily life of the Mesopotamians, Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. Include social classes, core values and beliefs, laws, and entertainment.
II. Short Essays (Choose 2 of 6 for 30 points)
Discuss the “fall” of the Roman Empire.
Discuss the importance of Paleolithic and Neolithic Revolutions.
Discuss one Mesopotamian, Egyptian, Greek, or Roman literary work (book, novel, epic poem)
Discuss the major causes, events, and results of either the Persian or Peloponnesian War.
Discuss the Greek city-state—include its various parts and use Athens and Sparta as examples.
Discuss Rome’s transition from Republic to Empire and the pivotal role Augustus played.
III. Identification (Choose 4 of 12 for 20 points)
The Twelve Tables 7. Film Journey of Man
Monotheism and Mosaic Law 8. The Nicene Creed
The Code of Hammurabi 9. Film Who were the Greeks (episode 1 or 2)
Epic of Gilgamesh 10. Film Ancient Rome
Film Guns, Germs, and Steel-Out of Eden 11. Diocletian and Constantine
One episode of From Jesus to Christ 12. One episode of Roman Empire in the First Century
Note: Coverage counts. Write 3-4 pages for the long essay; 1-2 pages for each short essay, and 1-2 paragraphs for each ID. For the long essay, use at least 2 primary sources and for each short essay use at least 1 primary source (show their relevance or importance). For the IDs, emphasize the significance of the term and include the “who, what, where, when, why, how” as applicable. Make extensive use of class notes, textbook and Sources book, and films and power points. I am looking for your arguments, ideas, and analysis supported by numerous and specific examples. Answer the questions thoroughly and show that you understand the main ideas and key concepts. You may use your textbook and notes in addition to the films, power points, and resources on Canvas, but do NOT plagiarize—do NOT copy/paste from internet sources. This is an open-note, open-book test and the work is to be your own—do NOT work with others. Submit ONCE after answering all parts of the exam as fully and well as you are able.
Remember you can only submit ONCE! Answer all parts of the exam fully in ONE document.
