INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the fascinating realm of the Old World, where history fuses with adventure. Regardless of whether you’re new or returning after a long break, this beginner-friendly guide is designed to take you on a fantastic journey through time and geography. If you’ve ever been intrigued by history, geography or culture, the Alte Welt is a fantastic place to arouse your curiosity. Let’s dive in!
WHAT IS THE OLD WORLD?
Simply put, the Old World refers to the parts of the world known to Europeans before the voyages of Christopher Columbus – Europe, Asia, and Africa. This vast expanse is teeming with diverse cultures, intriguing myths, riddles of ancient civilizations and architectural wonders. Discovering the Old World is essentially like gazing backward at the tapestry of modern society’s ancestry, and seeking answers to how we came to be who we are today.
Historically, Old World civilizations like Greece, Egypt, and China, have contributed significantly to science, literature, political systems, and much more that frames our world today. The insight you’ll gain by exploring the Old World would not simply enrich your understanding of the past, but also help to explain contemporary situations.
HOW IT WORKS OR HOW TO GET STARTED
Venturing into the Old World requires an insatiable curiosity for history and culture. Your first step would be to identify an aspect of the Old World that intrigues you the most – it could be a particular civilization or a historical era like the Renaissance. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get started:
1. Identify your interest: Whether you’re drawn toward Greek philosophy or are fascinated by the Egyptian Pyramids, pin down an area that excites you.
2. Do your research: Dive into related books, documentaries, and online articles to familiarize yourself with your chosen area. Pay attention to the subcultures, norms, traditions, and values of that period.
3. Engage with experts: Join online forums and communities where you can interact with historians or other enthusiasts who share your interests.
WHAT YOU NEED TO VENTURE INTO THE OLD WORLD
To immerse yourself in the Old World, you chiefly need an open mind, an adaptive mindset, and a thirst for knowledge. Here are some resources that would augment your explorations:
1. History books: Whether it’s a general world history book or a specific work focused on a particular civilization, books are essential to deepening your understanding.
2. Documentaries: Platforms like National Geographic, History Channel, or BBC offer a rich array of documentaries that bring the Old World to life.
3. Online resources: Websites like HistoryExtra, archaeology sites, and cultural threads on platforms such as Reddit are brilliant to delve deeper.
TIPS FOR ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS
Here are some practical tips to make your venture into the Old World more rewarding:
1. Start with a broad area: Start by studying the world as a whole before focusing on a particular civilization or era.
2. Take one step at a time: Don’t try to grasp everything at once. Information overload might lead to burnout.
3. Interact with others: Engaging with other enthusiasts will allow you to share ideas and broaden perspectives.
4. Be open-minded: Understanding different cultures requires accepting unfamiliar customs and values.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
There are myriads of resources available to aid your exploration into the Old World:
1. Podcasts like Hardcore History and History Extra offer fascinating insights.
2. The Metropolitan Museum provides virtual tours of countless historical artifacts.
3. Websites like Khan Academy has a wealth of resources for world history.
GLOSSARY: COMMON TERMS EXPLAINED
Here are few crucial terms:
1. Civilization: A complex society characterized by urban development, social stratification, and a recognized form of government.
2. Renaissance: A period in Europe from the 14th to the 17th century, marking the transition from the Middle Ages to modernity.
3. Archaeology: The study of human history and prehistory through the excavation of sites and the analysis of artifacts and other physical remains.
NEXT STEPS: WHERE TO GO FROM HERE
Start your venture into the Old World by exploring a culture or era that intrigues you the most. Immerse yourself in books, articles, documentaries, and interact with online communities to deepen your understanding. Remember, exploring the Old World is not just about the past but a way to understand our present more accurately. Embrace the journey, and let the history of the Old World fascinate and intrigue you!
