Decline, which you will describe, and then offer your explanation of “how?” “why?” “what does it mean?”

Western Civilization I – Essay 1

Using examples from Ancient Greece, the Roman Republic, and the Roman Empire (you must cover all three), explain instances where civilization progressed forward and particular instances where it declined (you must cover both for each of the three).

Civilizations rise and fall. But even on that trajectory there are many fluctuations. Instances of smooth progress are actually quite rare in history, especially when we lengthen the time to examine.

Ancient Greece, the Roman Republic, and the Roman Empire, existed for centuries and extended across vast territories of land and sea.

Your essay should offer a brief narrative background on each one, followed by specific instances of both progress and decline, which you will describe, and then offer your explanation of “how?” “why?” “what does it mean?”