History 1B - Topic #1

Introduction to Survey of Western Civilization

"Listen, then he said; I proclaim that justice is nothing else than the interest of the stronger."

　Thrasymachus

Our tale begins with the Renaissance, the period following the "Dark Ages" when learning and culture were re-born. The fall of the Roman Empire in AD 476 and the time of barbarism and ignorance that followed made a renaissance (rebirth) necessary. Western Civilization had to rediscover its past before it could contemplate its future.

The impact of the fall of Rome on Western Civilization can only be compared to the effect of a nuclear war on society. The advanced civilization of Augustus was reduced to the tribal level of Beowulf the Warrior. Rome had set the standard of culture and lifestyle which became the standard for modern western countries. During Pax Romana (27 BC - AD 192) Romans lived a happy, peaceful, comfortable existence under one government and one law. Travel was safe and easy-the result of an excellent road system, much of which still exists. Women had rights as did slaves. The poor were taken care of by an extensive welfare system. The Romans had an advanced water and sanitation system, part of which is still used today. The Romans even had a Minister of Amusement to keep the populace entertained with almost daily circuses and gladiatorial contests. Protecting this society was the best military force in history-the Roman army. Besides their own cultural achievements, the Romans also preserved and transmitted to us the great achievements of the Ancient Greeks.

With the fall of Rome we entered what was called the Dark Ages and the process of recovery began. In the arts, one thousand years passed before the achievements of classical art were rediscovered. Ease of travel in the West did not approach Roman standards until the 1850's, and Roman water and sanitation standards were not matched until the early 20th century. The dream of a happy, peaceful and comfortable Europe under one government and one law remains just that-though the Romanized Europeans of two thousand years ago enjoyed it as a reality.

These lectures will take the reader on Western Civilization's journey of re-discovery and achievement.

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