Course Descriptions
Humanities
HUM 204
Folklore
3 credits
In many ways, world folklore is the basis of the arts and, also, a strong influence on areas as diverse as psychology and religion. This course acquaints the students with an array of topics, including myths, proverbs, superstitions, fairy tales, and other sources of folk belief.
HUM 301
Biblical Studies
3 credits
This course presents the Bible as historical literature through which the roots of the Judeo-Christian world view are traced. Using a biblical perspective, social issues such as the origin of racism, sexism, and other contemporary issues are discussed and analyzed.
HUM 306
Comparative Religion
3 credits
This course is an historical treatment of American Judaism, Catholicism, Protestantism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, and Islamism. The relationship of religion to broad cultural settings is given emphasis.
HUM 307
The Performing Arts
3 credits
This course is an introduction to all disciplines of performing arts, with special emphasis on the arts in Delaware. Attendance at a variety of performing arts events and reviews and critiques of these programs are an essential part of the course.
HUM 310
Building Brain Power
3 credits
This course seeks to unlock the individual's creative potential, both personally and professionally. Creativity is typically ascribed to the outstandingly gifted and, most notably, artists. Therefore, many assume they cannot be creative unless they were born especially talented. However, research indicates that creative skills can be taught and developed. Considering the magnitude and complexity of problems facing contemporary society, fostering the understanding and growth of creative potential has become a crucial agenda.
HUM 325
Empowerment Strategies
3 credits
This course offers strategies for seeing possibilities in situations, ways of changing perspectives, evaluating opportunities, and discovering the power within you to change your attitudes, your work, your relationships, and your life for the better.
HUM 330
Introduction to Modern Theater
3 credits
This course gives students a thorough understanding of the intricacies of play production, including the interacting roles of the dramatist, actor, and backstage worker. Also included is a brief history and discussion of the changing theater from 1930 to the present.
HUM 340
Hispanic Culture and Enrichment
3 credits
Students will learn the importance of introducing children to foreign culture and language at an early age, as well as how to implement a program into the curriculum. This is a new, unique, and highly motivating course which will provide an understanding of the Hispanic culture. Students will learn through hands-on activities, crafts, music, dance, guest speakers, food, and some Spanish vocabulary.
HUM 341
Native Americans
3 credits
This course includes the study of Native American social and economic history and culture. It will acquaint the students in a broad way with the struggles and accomplishments of the Native Americans. One of the aims of this course is to bring about greater understanding and appreciation of the contributions and achievements of the Native Americans.
HUM 342
Western Myth
3 credits
This course will examine the myths of the western world. Students will become acquainted with certain myths that have helped shape some of our western values and beliefs.
HUM 360
Human World Views: 3500 BCE-1650 AD
3 credits
This course will focus on specific time periods, events, and historical questions of western/non-western cultures. It incorporates a wide variety of political, social, economic, religious, intellectual, and scientific issues that encompass and define the study of the Humanities, as we are confronted with basic questions regarding historical development, cultural traditions, human nature, moral action, and practical necessity.
HUM 361
Human World Views: 1650 AD-Present
3 credits
The primary way to understand the past and to appreciate the present is through an examination of the literature, art, philosophy, and history of the generations. Each piece of these disciplines is juxtaposed against the tapestry of history and culture so that it can be viewed within the content of its time. HUM 361 is a continuation of HUM 360 and will cover the time from 1650 AD to the present, emphasizing prevailing world views.
Prerequisite(s): ENG 102
HUM 401
Problems and History of Western Culture
3 credits
This is a survey of Western history which concentrates on ideas that have had significant impact.
HUM 410
Food: Art and Custom
3 credits
Food appreciation explores the rituals of dining, with emphasis on terminology and techniques used in the preparation and presentation of each dinner course, including complimentary beverages. Social and business implications of food will be discussed and demonstrated. Concentration will be on the pleasure that awareness of the art of food preparation affords the diner.
HUM 420
European Cultures and Historical Legacies
3 credits
This course offers a unique combination of study and experience. Students will find opportunities for cross-cultural encounters, which, in turn, will provide a physical and intellectual framework for an educationally exciting and enriching experience. The students will explore some of Europe's major cities, investigating their history, culture, changes, and present roles in the European community. This course is especially suited for students who wish to pursue international interest and studies beyond the classroom. The location of this course will be Italy.
HUM 421
European Cultures and Historical Legacies
3 credits
This course offers a unique combination of study and experience. Students will find opportunities for cross-cultural encounters, which, in turn, will provide a physical and intellectual framework for an educationally exciting and enriching experience. The students will explore some of Europe's major cities, investigating their history, culture, changes, and present roles in the European community. This course is especially suited for students who wish to pursue international interest and studies beyond the classroom. The location of this course will be Paris, London, and Venice.
HUM 425
Arab Perspectives
3 credits
This course is for those students who have little prior knowledge about the Arabic world and culture, in particular the world of Arab women. The course addresses the larger geographical, ideological, and cultural aspects of the Arabic world, as seen through the eyes of sociologists, film makers, and scholars, especially notable Arab women. The focus of the course includes themes about family, gender, self-expression, and religion.
