Humanities

A serious study of the Humanities (history, literature, theology, philosophy, geography, art, and music) will help adolescents see the interconnectedness of history and its ties to the world today, the origin of its progress as well as the roots of its troubles. It will enable them to ascertain what it means to be human: the meaning of love, suffering, sacrifice, death, and generous service to others. This knowledge elicits an appreciation and profound gratitude for the work of those who have come before us and the past civilizations that have greatly impacted us. It also assists adolescents in their search to understand today’s world, seeing it in the context of all human history, and seeing their place in it.

Humanities studies in the Middle School begin with an exploration of a particular time and place, creating a geographical foundation for understanding the people and events of the time-period as well as relating the study to the student’s previous knowledge and preparing a foundation for deeper study.

Students are presented with information on the time and place of study. Maps and timelines are created by students and are a foundation for understanding. Independent work also plays a significant part with weekly reading and writing assignments. The readings are taken from books, textbooks, and primary documents. At the end of the course of study, students complete a culminating research project, choosing a topic of interest to explore and go more in-depth.

Middle School Humanities offerings: Local History, The Ancient World: Greece and Rome, A Survey of the Middle Ages: Christendom, European Exploration, Colonial America, The American Revolution, Westward Exploration, and The Civil War.

The Integrated Humanities curriculum in the High School weaves together primary documents, works of literature, both prose and poetry, artwork, music, as well as key philosophical ideas of the period of study. Writing, rhetoric, memorization, and recitation are all components of the courses. The primary goals of the Integrated Humanities program are: learn to read more carefully and thoughtfully by examining literary texts, become more proficient in the art of writing and speaking, develop the ability to enter into lucid and mature dialectic with peers and teachers focused on timeless questions, aim to build an appreciation for those who have come before and ultimately for students to have a better understanding of themselves and their times.

High School Humanities Curriculum:

The Ancient World

American Studies

The Medieval World

The Modern World

Economics (for seniors)

Civics (for seniors)