Product Description: For one-/two-semester courses in Introduction to Humanities and Cultural Studies. Volumes I and II contain literature selections at the end of each chapter. The Combined Volume does not contain literature selections. This text is richly illustrated, beautifully designed and engaging. It offers an exploration of Western and World civilization's cultural heritage. Students move chronologically through major periods and styles to gain insight into the achievements and ideas in painting, sculpture, architecture, literature, philosophy, religion, and music. In 24 chapters, the Combined Volume provides students with a historical political, economic, and social framework to contextualize these achievements within a specific time and place, from prehistoric culture to 20th Century America. Timelines, maps, four-color and two-color illustrations, and a variety of unique "interrelationship" boxes help students make important interdisciplinary and cross-cultural connections, and help them relate the richness and meaning of the past to their own lives in the present.
none This book covers the aspects of Humanities through the ages very well. The chapters are too long are easy enough reading that it is good for the learning aspect rather than just straight text book reading.
Beautiful Images I personally felt the best thing about this text book was its beautiful images--the pieces of art are from all over the world, with varied mediums, differing meanings, and from differing time periods. The book is detailed and lengthy--it is not only ideal for those who thrive in artistry, but also for those who are studying the given topic.
Culture on a Shelf This is the sort of book that a student buys for a Humanities class and keeps the rest of their life. Children growing up with this in the home will immediately identify the worlds greatest art and buildings having already seen it here in this book. This book represents an investment in a cultured home and is one the whole family will appreciate for a lifetime. The pictures are beautiful. The organization is state of the art.