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 302
World of Wines
3 credits

Introduction to the world of wines explores the different wine producing grapes and wine regions around the world in terms, growing condition, and the skill of winemakers to produce wines which reflect the character and style of these world class regional wines. This will be accomplished with an in-depth study and discussion of the key wine grape regions in the world, including historical and geographical backgrounds, pertinent grape varietals and manufacturing processes. Each week will include a wine tasting and evaluation to support the premises Sensory perception will also be utilized to gain a pragmatic approach to food and wine matching.

Prerequisite(s): Must be 21 years of age to register for this section. Lab fee required.


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

This course is an overview of the influence of Latino history and culture in American society. The student will explore the multicultural, multiethnic and multiracial aspects of immigrants arriving in the United States. The class will focus on the geography, history, language and culture of the many groups who have emigrated to the United States and how these groups have and will influence the future of our country. COURSE OBJECTIVES: 1. Demonstrate the ability to give an overview of the groups of people who have immigrated to the United States. 2. Show sufficient knowledge of the geography and the history of the people of Latin America to understand the contributions of these people to American society. 3. Demonstrate a knowledge of the music and art of Latin America and understand how it has influenced the culture of the United States.


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 350
American Folklore
3 credits

Throughout its history, America has established a rich and varied folklore tradition. In this course, students will gain a greater understanding of this expressive area of study which explores the heritage of traditional America.


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.

Prerequisite(s): ENG 102 gpa .67


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 gpa .67


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 411
Food: Art and Custom: International
3 credits

Food: International explores the cultural impact of dining In countries currently playing major roles in the global economy. Recognizing that the future will require traveling and working in the world community, this course will provide an introduction to the traditional dishes of the selected countries, the etiquette of dining in those countries, and the fusion of that food into American cuisine.


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.