This is not an introductory course in history.  Please take a minute to consider what this means:

• As you can see in the assignments below, you will be expected to handle a reading load in this class of approximately 75-100 pages per week.  Although I have tried to avoid using any texts which use professional "jargon" in these assignments, occasionally some readings will include advanced vocabulary, possibly including foreign words or phrases. (This is, after all, a European history course.)  A dictionary will help you in understanding the definitions of such vocabulary.  If you do not own one, there is a link to an online version of the American Heritage Dictionary from Roesch Library's Databases webpage.

• You will be expected to write at a college level.   I look forward to working with you in developing your ability to structure a logical argument based on a thesis.  At the same time, you should be able to structure a sentence grammatically and use common words correctly, since usage errors detract from your argument and may even render it nonsensical.  The midterm and final exams will include a take home essay assignment, and any essay with more than THREE usage errors will receive an F.

• You will be expected to participate in class discussion.  Education is not the same thing as watching TV.  It is interactive.  If you prefer to "just watch," HST 311 is not the class for you. 

• While first- and second-year students may enroll in this course, usually they should not.  First year students should only take this course if they received an A in HST 103 and an A in ENG 114.  Second year students should only take this course if they received an A or B in HST 103 and an A or B in first year English and if they have a clear memory of the material in HST 103.  A general western civilization textbook (J.J. Spielvogel's Western Civilization: A Brief History) is on reserve in Roesch Library; it will help any student to understand the context for the development of gender norms in Europe during this period.

• You may have three "unexplained absences" this term.  These absences may not take place on days of scheduled exams or on January 13.  You must make up EVERY absence from the class with additional participation.

 
• You may have three additional "explained absences" this term.  These absences are granted only for UD athletic travel, the funeral of a family member, hospitalization of a family member, or personal illness serious enough to require the attention of a medical professional.  DO NOT E-MAIL ME REGARDING ANY ABSENCE.  I AM A HISTORIAN, AND AS SUCH REQUIRE DOCUMENTARY EVIDENCE OF THE FACTS.  You must see me during office hours (not before or after class!) and provide me with a copy of your athletic department letter, a printed obituary, or other official documentation.  You must make up EVERY absence from the class with additional participation.

• Note that students who do not take advantage of the opportunity to develop their discussion skills will not be able to earn an A in HST 353.