Western Civilization: Ancient and Medieval Europe from edX

This course is part of Global Freshman Academy (GFA), which means you can earn transferable ASU credit toward your college degree.

This course will provide a general outline of European history from Ancient times through 1500 AD, covering a variety of European historical periods and cultures, including Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Celtic, Frankish and others.

This course satisfies the Social-Behavioral Sciences (SB) and Historical Awareness (H) general studies requirements at Arizona State University. This course may satisfy a general education requirement at other institutions; however, it is strongly encouraged that you consult with your institution of choice to determine how these credits will be applied to their degree requirements prior to transferring the credit.

Student Testimonials

“I loved this class and was sorry when it ended. I learned a lot and loved the lectures and instructors. The course was well organized, easy to follow, and staff responded promptly to questions (within a day, it seemed to me.) I took the remote proctored exams, and everything was easy to follow and worked well.” -Renee Swenson

“I am totally impressed. They provide a wealth of interesting information in a concise clear format. They have a good mix of lectures and readings that nicely covers the general early history of Western Civilization. This is an excellent MOOC well worth the time.” -Paul Hundal

More reviews on CourseTalk

What you'll learn

Think critically about the development of people politically, socially, and economically
Evaluate evolution of political systems and their contribution to western society
Understand the changing social role of religion in European society
Explore the changing relations between Ancient and Medieval Europe and the world beyond

What's inside

Learning objectives

Think critically about the development of people politically, socially, and economically
Evaluate evolution of political systems and their contribution to western society

Understand the changing social role of religion in european society
Explore the changing relations between ancient and medieval europe and the world beyond

Think critically about the development of people politically, socially, and economically
Evaluate evolution of political systems and their contribution to western society
Understand the changing social role of religion in european society
Explore the changing relations between ancient and medieval europe and the world beyond

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Gain an extensive understanding of the historical foundations of Western civilization

Course objectives align with general studies requirements at Arizona State University

Taught by instructors with expertise in the field of European history

Explore a diverse range of European cultures and historical periods

Covers the evolution of political systems and their influence on Western society

Examines the changing role of religion in shaping European society

Reviews summary

Positive overview of western civilization

learners say this is a solid overview of Western Civilization with well-organized and accessible materials. It is a good course for learners new to the subject or exploring their interests more deeply.

Organized and accessible course materials.

"Very organised and comprehensive material organised in a way that is accessible to all."

"All materials were organized in a very logical and easy to comprehend manner."

Helpful overview of Western Civilization.

"This is a good, solid course for someone looking to have a brief overview of Western History, or trying to figure out what area, in particular, might interest them."

"learnt a good amount about the history of Western Civ."

"I was able to gain a better understanding of Western Civilization."

Career center

Learners who complete Western Civilization: Ancient and Medieval Europe will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Historian

A Historian researches, analyzes, interprets, and writes about the past and its impact on society. In this role, you would gather and sift through historical artifacts, documents, and other sources to understand and interpret the past. Western Civilization: Ancient and Medieval Europe can help build a foundation in historical analysis, research skills, and an in-depth understanding of the development of Western civilization. By studying the political, social, economic, and religious evolution of Europe from ancient times through the Middle Ages, you can gain insights into the origins and development of Western society and culture.

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Cultural Anthropologist

A Cultural Anthropologist investigates and documents the behavior, beliefs, and languages of different human cultures. In this role, you would study the social and cultural practices of different societies, both past and present. Western Civilization: Ancient and Medieval Europe can help build a foundation in cultural anthropology by providing a deep understanding of the development and evolution of Western culture and society. The course examines the political, social, economic, and religious systems that have shaped Western civilization.

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Museum curator

A Museum Curator is responsible for planning and managing environmental control over museum collections. In this role, you would oversee the preservation, display, and interpretation of historical artifacts and cultural objects. By taking Western Civilization: Ancient and Medieval Europe, you can gain a deep understanding of the historical and cultural context of the artifacts and objects in your care. The course provides insights into the development of Western art, architecture, and material culture, enabling you to interpret and present these artifacts to the public.

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Archivist

An Archivist is responsible for managing and preserving historical documents and records. In this role, you would organize, catalog, and maintain historical documents, ensuring their preservation and accessibility for research and public use. By studying Western Civilization: Ancient and Medieval Europe, you can gain a deep understanding of the historical and cultural value of archival materials. The course provides insights into the development of writing, record-keeping, and information management systems in Western civilization.

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Teacher

A Teacher instructs students in a specific academic subject, such as history, at a primary or secondary school level. In this role, you would develop and implement lesson plans, assess student progress, and create a positive learning environment. Western Civilization: Ancient and Medieval Europe can help build a foundation in history education by providing a comprehensive overview of the subject matter. By studying the political, social, economic, and religious history of Europe from ancient times through the Middle Ages, you can gain a deep understanding of the events, people, and ideas that have shaped Western civilization.

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Documentarian

A Documentarian researches, writes, and develops scripts for documentary films and programs. In this role, you would uncover and tell compelling stories about historical events, people, and cultures. By taking Western Civilization: Ancient and Medieval Europe, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of European history and culture. The course provides insights into the political, social, economic, and religious forces that have shaped Western civilization, enabling you to develop well-informed and engaging documentaries.

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Journalist

A Journalist researches, writes, and reports on current events and issues for newspapers, magazines, and other media outlets. In this role, you would gather and analyze information, interview sources, and write articles or reports that inform the public. Western Civilization: Ancient and Medieval Europe can help build a foundation in journalism by providing a broad historical perspective on the development of Western societies and cultures. By studying the political, social, economic, and religious systems that have shaped Europe, you can gain a deeper understanding of the present and its roots in the past.

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Foreign Service Officer

A Foreign Service Officer represents the United States government abroad and promotes American interests. In this role, you would work in embassies and consulates around the world, providing political, economic, and cultural analysis, and building relationships with foreign governments and societies. By taking Western Civilization: Ancient and Medieval Europe, you can gain a deep understanding of the historical and cultural foundations of different societies. The course provides insights into the development of political systems, social structures, and cultural traditions in Europe, enabling you to better understand and interact with diverse cultures in your diplomatic work.

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Lawyer

A Lawyer advises and represents clients in legal matters, such as civil disputes, criminal cases, and business transactions. In this role, you would apply your knowledge of the law to protect the rights of your clients and help them achieve their legal goals. Western Civilization: Ancient and Medieval Europe can help build a foundation in law by providing a historical perspective on the development of legal systems and institutions. By studying the evolution of laws and legal concepts in Europe, you can gain insights into the origins and principles of modern legal systems.

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Political Scientist

A Political Scientist studies and analyzes political systems, institutions, and processes. In this role, you would research and analyze how power is distributed and exercised in societies, both domestically and internationally. Western Civilization: Ancient and Medieval Europe can help build a foundation in political science by providing a historical perspective on the development of political thought and institutions. By studying the evolution of political systems in Europe, you can gain insights into the origins and principles of modern politics.

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Economist

An Economist studies and analyzes the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. In this role, you would use economic models and data to understand how economies function and make predictions about future economic trends. Western Civilization: Ancient and Medieval Europe can help build a foundation in economics by providing a historical perspective on the development of economic systems and ideas. By studying the evolution of economic systems in Europe, you can gain insights into the origins and principles of modern economics.

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Sociologist

A Sociologist studies and analyzes human societies, cultures, and social interactions. In this role, you would research and analyze how social structures, institutions, and processes shape human behavior and experiences. Western Civilization: Ancient and Medieval Europe can help build a foundation in sociology by providing a historical perspective on the development of social systems and institutions. By studying the evolution of social structures in Europe, you can gain insights into the origins and principles of modern societies.

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Anthropologist

An Anthropologist studies and analyzes human societies, cultures, and behaviors, focusing on their diversity and similarities. In this role, you would research and analyze how cultural and social factors shape human behavior and experiences. Western Civilization: Ancient and Medieval Europe can help build a foundation in anthropology by providing a historical perspective on the development of human societies and cultures. By studying the evolution of cultural and social systems in Europe, you can gain insights into the origins and diversity of human cultures.

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Archaeologist

An Archaeologist studies and analyzes past human societies and cultures through the excavation and examination of material remains. In this role, you would excavate and analyze artifacts, structures, and other evidence to reconstruct and interpret past societies. Western Civilization: Ancient and Medieval Europe may be useful in providing a historical context for your work as an archaeologist. By studying the political, social, economic, and religious systems that have shaped Europe, you can gain insights into the development of human societies and cultures over time.

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Theologian

A Theologian studies and analyzes religious beliefs, practices, and texts. In this role, you would research and analyze religious doctrines, traditions, and experiences to understand their meaning and significance. Western Civilization: Ancient and Medieval Europe may be useful in providing a historical context for your work as a theologian. By studying the role of religion in European history, you can gain insights into the development of religious thought and practices over time.

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Western Civilization

Ancient and Medieval Europe