History

Knowledge of the past allows students to understand the present, to consider their own beliefs, and to develop empathy for those different from themselves. To further these goals, the history curriculum at Exeter offers an historical perspective on the contemporary world and trains students in the skills of critical reading, speaking and writing. Class discussions around the Harkness table focus on historical issues that challenge every student to think independently and to articulate ideas in a clear and well-supported fashion. “Why?” or “what do you think?” questions are more central to the history classroom than “what happened?” As in class discussions, writing assignments focus on helping students develop clarity and sophistication with an emphasis on exposition and analysis.

All courses, except for History 332 and 333, may be taken without a prerequisite. Students may sample different areas or take courses in sequences that emphasize key themes and developments of both the Eastern and Western traditions. Many offerings emphasize parts of the world and cultures outside those of Europe and the United States, and taking one of these courses is a diploma requirement for three-year and four-year students. (See courses listed below.) Additionally, the department strongly encourages students to take at least one history course from the department’s offerings before beginning the United States history sequence.

Introductory courses, numbered in the 100s, are open to Juniors and Lowers with the exception of History 100 and 101; these two courses, open only to Juniors, assume less familiarity with historical skills. 100-level courses emphasize fundamental skills in the study of history and the social sciences: gathering and interpreting evidence, analyzing concepts, and generalizing and synthesizing in frequent written exercises.

Intermediate courses, numbered in the 200s, are open to Lowers and Uppers. They utilize more difficult materials, involve the study of more complex concepts, and demand a higher level of competence.

Advanced courses are numbered in the 300s and 400s. The American history sequence—331, 332, and 333— is required for the diploma and is open to Uppers and Seniors. This rigorous, yearlong sequence culminates in a major research paper in the spring term.

The 400-level courses are limited to Seniors, although, on occasion, Uppers are enrolled by permission of the department chair. These courses are often more topical in nature. Writing assignments and class meetings may be fewer in number than other levels in order to accommodate more sophisticated readings and independent work.

Advanced Placement Exams: the department does not confine itself to teaching in order to best prepare students for standardized tests. We believe that such an approach would compromise our commitment to student-centered discussion, close reading of primary and secondary sources, and independent research and writing. Those students wishing to take AP Exams in history are strongly advised to undertake sustained review on their own.

Courses in anthropology and economics are taught under the aegis of the History Department. These courses, however, do not satisfy the History requirement.

Three-year and four-year students are required to take at least one of the following courses: 100, 101, 131, 165, 167, 270, 436, 445, 446, 463, 465, 467, 477 and 486.