The Bachelor of Humanities Great Books Program at Carleton University

The College of the Humanities is proud to share that Professor Micheline White's research was featured in CTV News as one of the “15 Best Art, Design, and Archaeology Discoveries” of 2023!

CTV highlights Professor White’s discovery and analysis of marginalia written by King Henry VIII in a prayer book he owned late in his life. Her discovery made international headlines in the summer of 2023 as the marginalia provides an exciting glimpse into the reflections of King Henry VIII late in his life.

Linked here is both the CTV article and the FASS website article that provides an in depth discussion on Professor White's work.

CTV “15 Best Art, Design, and Archaeology Discoveries” article: https://www.ctvnews.ca/sci-tech/the-15-best-art-design-and-archeology-discoveries-of-2023-1.6687662

FASS article: https://carleton.ca/fass/story/notes-from-the-margins/

Notes From the Margins - Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences By Alyssa Tremblay Banner image by Nick Peate While archival research has a reputation for being dry and dusty work, pouring through the words and works of those long passed can have the electrifying…

The College of Humanities is so proud to share that Professor Micheline White's research was deemed one of the “15 Best Art, Design, and Archaeology Discoveries” of 2023 by CTV News! Prof. White's research has been featured on the FASS website, CTV News, and is published in the latest issue of Renaissance Quarterly. See these links to read about her discovery and analysis of the marginalia that King Henry VIII added to a prayer book he owned. Congratulations!

Find the FASS feature here: https://carleton.ca/fass/story/notes-from-the-margins/

Find the CTV Top 15 article here: https://www.ctvnews.ca/sci-tech/the-15-best-art-design-and-archeology-discoveries-of-2023-1.6687662

Notes From the Margins - Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences By Alyssa Tremblay Banner image by Nick Peate While archival research has a reputation for being dry and dusty work, pouring through the words and works of those long passed can have the electrifying…

Tomorrow! Share with anyone interested in learning about the Humanities program

Spotlight Event December 2nd 2023 Virtual Humanities (Great Books) Spotlight Event Event Date: Dec 02, 2023 Time: 3:00 PM The session will be hosted on zoom Discover what it means to study the ‘Great Books’ at Carleton University by attending the Virtual Humanities (Great Books) Spotlight Event. We will explore the Bachelor of H...

An interesting read from my friend Bernard Wills, a professor of Humanities in Corner Brook.

Why Philosophy Comes from Egypt In the Renaissance it was thought that Philosophy came from Egypt. This is because the texts of the Corpus Hermeticum were thought to be th...

Tomorrow! The Soul of Civility: How lessons from the humanities can heal our society. Lecture in Loeb A602 at 4:00 pm.

Here are some highlights from the Humanities trip to New York over reading week! 20 students spent four days of fun in NYC visiting libraries, museums, and enjoying everything New York has to offer.

On the first full day of activities students ooh'ed and ahh'ed through an amazing tour of the Morgan Library, and excitedly looked through the treasures room in the New York Public Library. Here students got to see displays of texts and periods they studied in class!

The next day students enjoyed walking through the MET where they were free to explore any exhibit that spoke to their interests! Some students discussed their art history classes as they roamed through halls of paintings they had seen in lectures, studied and wrote about! Others explored the Ancient Egyptian galleries and the special exhibit on Buddhist sculpture and stupas!

On their final day of activities in NYC Hums students explored the MoMA. Students were absorbed by works about topics they had studied such as modern and post-modern art, the Harlem Renaissance, and American literary figures such as Phyllis Wheatley.

Overall it was a fun, exciting and eventful trip! A huge thank you to Professor White and Professor Stephenson for leading this pack of Humanities Students through a memorable adventure to NYC!!

https://youtu.be/oZSfkw0DwiQ?si=_piwd69D8V1Kz7p6

Bachelor of Humanities — Carleton University's Great Books program What is a Great Books program? Carleton University Professors D. Gregory MacIsaac and Micheline White discuss the Bachelor of Humanities at Carleton Universi...

What is a Great Books Program?

Bachelor of Humanities — Carleton University's Great Books program What is a Great Books program? Carleton University Professors D. Gregory MacIsaac and Micheline White discuss the Bachelor of Humanities at Carleton Universi...

In September, Hums students had the opportunity to spend a day in Montreal! They saw amazing art in the Museum of Fine Arts and heard beautful music at the Maison Symphonique.

Here's a comment from one of the students: "My favourite part of the trip was seeing artwork created in the time period that I am learning about in classes. In particular I enjoyed the floors of the Fine Arts Museum reserved for artwork of the Renaissance and the Enlightenment."

The second volume of Ipso Facto is officially published! Congratulations to the Ipso Facto team for getting this monumental task done. Follow this link to see the 10 interesting and thoughtful articles in this year's edition.

View of Vol. 2 (2023): Ipso Facto: The Carleton Journal of Interdisciplinary Humanities

CNN recently interviewed Associate Professor Micheline White, who teaches our HUMS3000 course, about her discovery of handwritten marginalia left by England’s King Henry VIII in a prayer book. Micheline White found the annotations Henry VIII scribbled into a prayer book translated in 1544 by Katherine Parr. Read more about her find here:

Scholar finds doodles made by Henry VIII in ancient prayer book | CNN Toward the end of his life, England’s King Henry VIII left a series of doodles in a prayer book, revealing his anguish over his health and his past actions, new research shows.

Here is a picture taken in front of Raphael’s The School of Athens! Humanities students were able to view the original work in the in the Apostolic Palace in the Vatican due to this year's HUMS3800 course. From May 4th to May 26th, 2023, a group of students studying humanities had the opportunity to participate in this enlightening course, which was designed and led by Professors Shane Hawkins and Shawna Dolansky. Below is a description of each week and country of the trip. To see many, many more pictures request to join the HUMS3800 Facebook group!

During the course, the students embarked on a journey to three iconic cities: Jerusalem, Athens, and Rome. These cities are renowned for their rich history and monumental significance. In the Humanities, these cities colour the texts students explore through the program. By walking in the footsteps of ancient civilizations, the students were able to engage with the tangible remnants of the past. They visited archaeological sites, museums, and cultural landmarks, uncovering layers of history that shed light on the complexities of identity formation. Students gained a deeper understanding of how historical events and cultural contexts shape the art, literature, politics, philosophy, architecture, religions, and cultures that they are exposed to in their coursework.

ISRAEL

During their time in Israel, the students embarked on a captivating exploration of historical and cultural sites. The journey began in Jaffa and Tel Aviv. The following day, the group embarked on a journey to explore Caesarea, Megiddo, and Beit Alpha.

Continuing their adventure, the students traveled to Tiberias. There students explored the Sea of Galilee and significant sites. They explored Tel Hatzor, sailed on a reconstructed Jesus boat on the Sea of Galilee, and visited Capernaum and Magdala. The course moved further south, with a visit to Beit She'an, toward the Dead Sea. Students explored Qumran, the site associated with the Dead Sea Scrolls, and walked through Masada where they discussed key figures like David and the Maccabees and Herod the Great.

The Israel journey culminated in Jerusalem, where students explored sites related to both the Hebrew Bible and the New Testament. In the old city, they embarked on an extensive tour through the Jewish Quarter and Southern Wall excavations. The students immersed themselves in the rich history of Jerusalem, visiting significant sites such as the Cardo, the Hurva Synagogue, and the model of Jerusalem during the First Temple Period. They also saw the City of David and delving into the water system of biblical Jerusalem by wading through Hezekiah's Tunnel. The following day, the students also explored Roman Jerusalem, where they followed the stations of the cross visiting the Mount of Olives, Gethsemane, St. Anne's Church, and walking the Via Dolorosa, culminating in a visit to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

On the final day of the Israel leg, the students participated in an archaeological sifting project, engaging in hands-on work to uncover ancient artifacts. They also visited the archaeological wing of the Israel Museum, home to the Second Temple Jerusalem scale model and the Shrine of the Book, which houses the Dead Sea Scrolls.

Throughout their time in Israel, the students embraced the opportunity to delve into history and culture making lasting memories and connections. Their experiences were complemented by an array of educational resources, articles, and videos that enhanced their understanding of the significance of each site they explored. Through lunch breaks, bus rides, hotel stays and walking tours students buzzed with conversations that connected their learning experiences in Paterson Hall with the sites they interacted with through Israel.

GREECE

Students embarked on the next leg of their journey, eagerly anticipating the wonders of Greece. Building upon their knowledge of Greek myth, history, philosophy, and culture they arrived in Athens, the intellectual epicenter of ancient Greece. Here Professor Shane Hawkins took on the task of guiding students with lectures and discussions through key sites.

Their exploration of Greece commenced with a visit to the iconic Acropolis, a symbol of classical civilization. Students marveled at the architectural marvels such as the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Propylaea, immersing themselves in the grandeur of ancient Greek civilization.

Beyond Athens, the students embarked on enriching day trips to Cape Sounion and the island of Aegina. At Cape Sounion, they saw the Temple of Poseidon, perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea. At Aegina students visited the Temple of Aphaia. In addition to immersing themselves in the ancient sites, the students also embraced the local culture, exploring the town life and enjoying the swimming locations.

The following days saw students travelling through Greece to visit Epidaurus with its sanctuary of Asclepius, Nafplion, Mycenae, Olympia and Delphi. In Epidaurus the sanctuary of Asclepius, the Greek god of healing, students explored the impressive theater and other structures that formed part of the sanctuary. In Nafplion students had the opportunity to soak in the local ambiance, stroll through its picturesque streets, and explore the archaeological sites that lay nearby. Mycenae, an ancient city steeped in myth and legend, awaited the students on their 12th day of travel. As they walked through its magnificent ruins, including the imposing Lion Gate and the Treasury of Atreus, the students were transported back to the time of the legendary Mycenaean civilization. They marveled at the remnants of a bygone era, contemplating the tales of heroes and the cultural legacy left behind.

Continuing their journey, the students arrived in Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Exploring the archaeological site and its accompanying museum, they encountered the remnants of the ancient stadium, temples, and statues that once witnessed the pinnacle of athletic excellence in the ancient world. This visit allowed them to appreciate the significance of sports and competition in Greek society, connecting them to the ideals and values of the ancient Greeks. In Delphi, nestled amidst the breathtaking scenery of Mount Parnassus, the students explored the famed Oracle of Delphi, the Temple of Apollo, and the Theater of Delphi.

Throughout their time in Greece, the students not only immersed themselves in the archaeological wonders but also embraced the vibrant communities that continue to thrive in these historic locations. They engaged with local culture, ate the cuisine, and experienced the warmth and hospitality of the Greek people.

Moreover, each location included a visit to the museums that informed and curated the sites they connected to. Students visited Museums such as the National Archeological Museum and the New Acropolis Museum. Students carried with them a deep appreciation for the enduring legacy of ancient Greece and the profound impact it has had on Western civilization. Their exploration of historical sites, museums, and towns allowed them to connect with the past.

ITALY

The final week on the HUMS3800 trip was in Italy, where students immersed themselves in the rich history and cultural treasures of Rome. Under the guidance of Professor Hawkins, they embarked on an extensive exploration of the city, delving into its architectural wonders, ancient ruins, and renowned landmarks.

Their journey through Rome began with a captivating walking tour that took them through a myriad of significant sites. On their first full day in Rome, the focus shifted to the city's basilicas, renowned for their architectural splendor and historical significance. They visited Porta Portese, Piramide di Caio Cestio, Chiesa Santo Stefano in Rotondo, and the Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano. In the afternoon, their explorations continued with visits to the Basilica di San Clemente, Basilica di San Pietro in Vincoli, and Santa Maria Maggiore.

The following day, the students were captivated by the grandeur of the Pantheon, a marvel of Roman architecture that many students remember from their art history course. They also visited the picturesque Piazza della Minerva, Santa Maria Sopra Minerva, and admired the iconic Trevi Fountain. Their afternoon was dedicated to the Palazzo Barberini, which houses the Galleria Nazionale d'Arte Antica, showcasing a remarkable collection of art.

The itinerary continued with visits to the Portico d'Ottavia, Fontana delle Tartarughe, and Campo de' Fiori. They explored the historic Largo di Torre Argentina and had the opportunity to visit the Capitoline Museums, where they encountered a wealth of ancient artifacts and artwork. In the afternoon, the students saw the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill, gaining a deeper understanding of ancient Roman life and politics. The day concluded with a visit to the Arch of Constantine and a memorable exploration of the Colosseum.

The subsequent day was dedicated to an exploration of Castel Sant'Angelo, a fortress that has played various roles throughout history. Following that, the students toured the treasures of the Vatican Museums, including the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel. Their visit ended with a tour of the magnificent St. Peter's Basilica.
As the trip approached its end, the students had one final day in Rome before venturing to Pompeii and Naples. In Rome, students had the morning to explore Rome however they pleased before they gathered at the Tempio Maggiore di Roma, also known as the Great Synagogue, for a tour of its museum and synagogue. In the evening, they enjoyed a group dinner in Ghetto di Roma at Al Pompiere.

For their final day in Italy, and the trip overall, students travelled to Pompeii where they received a guided tour of the ancient site. They explored the remarkably preserved ruins, gaining insight into the daily life and culture of the ancient Romans. After the tour, they enjoyed a delicious lunch at a pizzeria in Naples, savoring the authentic flavors of Italy. Students also received a private tour of the Naples National Archaeological Museum, home to an impressive collection of artifacts and artworks from Pompeii and other ancient Roman sites.

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The HUMS3800 course provided a unique learning opportunity for these students to bridge the gap between the humanities and real-world experiences. By venturing into these historic and monumental cities, they not only expanded their knowledge but also deepened their appreciation for the intricate connections between history, culture, and identity.

We are immensely proud of the students who participated in this enlightening journey, as they exemplify the spirit of exploration and intellectual curiosity that defines Carleton's Humanities Program. The experiences and insights gained during this course will undoubtedly enrich their academic and personal journeys moving forward!

This years Maurice Price Summer Internships is Thora Asudeh!

"Åland Islands is an archipelago in the Baltic Sea. It is a self-governing, Swedish-speaking province (autonomous region) within Finland. It is also my second home. In this project, I will investigate 16th century reformation movements on Åland. The Reformation on Åland has not been closely observed despite the island’s intertwined Lutheran identity, church history, and unique culture."

To read more about it and our past Maurice Price projects: https://carleton.ca/bhum/maurice-price-summer-internships/

In the fall we published our very first newsletter from the College of the Humanities! We hope this is a way to keep you informed about the College and for you to stay in touch with us.

Another newsletter will be coming soon, stay tuned! If you’d like to be added to the mailing list, please fill out this form:https://carleton.ca/bhum/please-stay-in-touch/

Please join us in the College of the Humanities (303 Paterson Hall) for an introduction to the Bachelor of Humanities (Great Books) program at Carleton on April 15th, at 3pm. You will also have the opportunity to learn about the Humanities and Biology program, the Journalism and Humanities degree, as well as the Humanities Study Year Abroad. Professors and students from the Humanities will also be available to answer your questions.

Also we are hosting an essay contest! The Bachelor of Humanities invites submissions for its annual High School Essay Contest. All High School or CÉGEP students are invited to submit an essay, of no more than 1000 words in length, answering the following question: What is a Great Book?
The contest winner and runner-up, as chosen by a panel of professors in the Bachelor of Humanities program, will receive $500 and $250 respectively. The deadline for submissions is May 1st 2023 and contest results will be announced June 1st, 2023.

Please share with anyone who may be interested!

The Humanities social media accounts will be posting examinations of what makes each year in the program special! Today we are focusing on the first year experience in the program.

In your first year you will encounter courses that focus on texts like the ones depicted. Outside of core classes, you can join student-led clubs and organizations, and attend guest lectures and events. You will encounter a community of like-minded individuals who enjoy thinking about and talking about different ways of understanding the universe, and exploring religious, philosophical, and epic storytelling within the ancient contexts in which these narratives developed. Upper year students fondly remember going over first-year texts in the Humanities lounge and having thoughtful, exciting, and humorous conversations with new-found friends 😊

First year in the Humanities program examines primary sources from pre-history to the ancient world and focusses on Religion & Myth. The core course of first year is HUMS1000: Foundational Myths & Histories where students explore the earliest human writings expressing their understanding of our place in the cosmos. Students read texts such as the Hebrew Bible, the Bhagavad Gita, the Tao Te Ching, and various myths from Mesopotamia like the Epic of Gilgamesh. Students discuss themes of cosmogony, authority, morality, mortality, and sacred and profane love. The main aim of HUMS1000 is to inspire reflection on complex and divergent sources of human spirituality, virtue, and wisdom without synthesizing superficial resemblances. This way students complete the course with a sense of confidence in comparing and contrasting themes and tensions in the history, texts, and core beliefs of various cultures.

Outside of our core course, complementary courses focus on developing writing skills. HUMS1200 acts as a writing workshop while taking students through exciting epics like the Iliad, the Odyssey, and Virgil’s The Aeneid. These narratives, which influence texts students read throughout the program, are often what spark students’ excitement and enthusiasm for studying Humanities. Reading ancient epics like the Iliad breaks through students fears and doubts and shows them that the Humanities makes reading intimidating texts possible, captivating, and valuable.

Student compositors hard at work in Carleton's Books Arts Lab.

Hello alumni, We are looking for a lawyer who would be willing to share some thoughts (15-20 minutes) about the field of law at our annual Career Night. Friday March 3 at 4:45 ish. If you can help, please email me at [email protected]

Today marks the beginning of Black History Month. The College of the Humanities celebrates Black history by engaging in open discussion about the history of Black lives in the history of Western literature.

For example, Humanities students examine the 18th century writer Phillis Wheatley. Presented in the photo, Phillis Wheatley was the first American slave and the third colonial American woman to have her work published. In HUMS3000 students discuss and study Wheatley's work, historical context, and life. Her story and writing provides insight to the experience of Black youth in colonial times. Poem's like her famous "On Being Brought from Africa to America" are examined in detail for her poetic skill and technique. Her writing is examined in lectures, discussions, and student writing in HUMS3000: Culture and Imagination.

Moreover, the HUMS3000 discussion groups provide the space for open conversation on the effects and influences of slavery on many of the 18th-19th century texts we examine.

Phillis Wheatley is one of the great thinkers of history Humanities students study. Students also touch on subjects like the Black identity that has been discussed around Beethoven, the history of African identities in ancient religions, and the presence of Black lives in literary works like Aphra Behn's Oroonoko.

This link (https://www.blackhistoryottawa.org/about-1) has information on Black History Month related events in Ottawa that are coming up!

Next month we are having a spotlight event! Professors and Humanities students will be there to answer questions and provide insight into the Bachelor of Humanities, the Journalism and Humanities degree, the Humanities and Biology program, and the Humanities Study Year Abroad. Please share with anyone who may be interested in Humanities at Carleton.

Link for more information and zoom access: https://admissions.carleton.ca/events/humanities-spotlight-event-winter1/

The College of the Humanities is hosting in-person as well as virtual introductions to our Bachelor of Humanities (Great Books) program at Carleton soon! If you know anyone who is interested in studying HUMS please share

For more info: https://carleton.ca/bhum/learn/

The Humanities Cultural Program gave students the fun experience of seeing Canada's Royal Winnipeg Ballet's production of "The Handmaid's Tale” last Friday!

Humanities is bringing back our pre-COVID tradition of High Tea! This Friday students and teachers will gather in the lounge to enjoy tea and goodies together. People are encouraged to bring their own mugs to reduce waste, and to show off! ☕️

A rich resource to help us reflect on this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Select a story – The Witness Blanket

Congratulations to Jeremy Garbe for his award to study genre and narrative in philosophical writing.

Congratulations to the Recipient of the Maurice Price Foundation Summer Research Internship The Effects of Genre and Narrative on Philosophical Writings: An Exploration of the Merits of Philosophical Literature By Jeremy Garbe Background One of the main goals of a philosopher is to convey their ideas to others in a coherent way. A philosopher must choose what structure, language, style, an...

The annual Hums 3000 pub night is back after a two-year hiatus. Cheers everyone!