Western Civilization

First Exam Study Guide

Be prepared to write a well-organized essay answering one of the following questions. Remember that you need to include a thesis in your introductory paragraph and use the body of the essay to provide evidence supporting that thesis. Three of the following questions will appear on the exam. You will choose one of those three.

What is "civilization?"

Compare and contrast the civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Hebrews. Why are the Hebrews, rather than the other two, considered to be the primary source of Western tradition?

What are the basic differences between Hellenic and Hellenistic civilization and what do we owe to each?

How did Rome incorporate the Greek tradition, adapt it and expand on it?

Discuss the influences of other traditions on early Christianity.

Describe feudalism. What conditions led to the rise of feudalism and the manor system?