Unit 3 provides historical context to the concept and function of democracy by examining different accounts of conflicts in ancient Greece. Readings and discussions offer the opportunity to think critically about leadership, freedom, civic duty, the inevitability of and loyalty in war, and the writing of history.
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Learning Objectives:
Explore early conceptions of democracy and the struggle for its preservation in ancient Greece, focusing on Athenian political institutions and practices.
Consider the roles of justice, identity, custom, and ideology in the rise and fall of powerful governments.
Learn how to discern the author's purpose and trustworthiness and the influence of both on the function of a text.
Readings
These are required readings that students complete the night before. The fellows review the readings in study groups on the morning of your seminar.
Herodotus. “The Histories.” In The Landmark Herodotus: The Histories. Translated by Andrea L. Purvis, edited by Robert B. Strassler. New York: Pantheon Books, 2007. (pp. 245-251)
Thucydides. “History of the Peloponnesian War.” In The Landmark Thucydides: A Comprehensive Guide to the Peloponnesian War. Translated by Richard Crawley, edited by Robert
B. Strassler. New York: Touchstone. (pp. 110-118; 350-357)
What Students Know:
In the previous units, students learned about the foundation of American democracy. Unit 1 delved into the substantive ideals underpinning democracy, fostering critical thinking about political equality, liberty, freedom, individualism, and sovereignty of the people within the context of the American Revolution. Unit 2 examined the fulfillment of these ideals in the Constitution, focusing on the development and prerogatives of the federal government, including the division of powers among its branches and addressing potential abuses of power. Students also completed a unit on analytical reading taught by WSP fellows.
Writing Assignment
Throughout the week, students will be working with writing instructors and tutors to develop a 3-5 page college-level academic essay. Students are expected to use assigned readings as primary sources and are encouraged to use study groups and seminar discussions to support their writing. You are welcome to highlight any topics during the discussion that you think might be relevant to their essay writing.
Your Role
Faculty provide a core service in our academic boot camps by ensuring that WSP participants experience a college-level course in a real-life setting. This experience helps to instill confidence and prompt motivation to pursue higher education. Your role is, ultimately, to be yourself; to share your expertise with participants and to run the class like you would with traditional college students. We highly encourage you to find ways to connect with participants and to share any advice you have for them as they transition from military service to higher education.
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