INTRODUCTION
Hello there! If you’ve got a fascination for the medieval times, a fondness for history or an intrigue in anthropology, you’ve landed on the right article. Today, we’re going to go deep into the labyrinth called ‘The Ancien monde.’ Don’t worry if you don’t know much about this concept, this is a beginner-friendly guide and we’ll explore together the vast expanse of what The Old World encapsulates, why it’s so interesting, and some helpful resources to further your study. Strap in as we ride the time machine back to The Old World!
QU'EST-CE QUE L'ANCIEN MONDE ?
Simply put, ‘The Old World’ is a term used to refer to Africa, Asia, and Europe collectively. Coined in the Age of Discovery, this phrase has a significant historical and cultural meaning. Back in the day when the world was believed to be flat, Europeans who ventured eastward believed these three continents were all that existed. Everything changed when the so-called ‘New World’ – Americas – was discovered by Christopher Columbus.
The Old World is also a cradle of civilization. Ancient Egypt in Africa, Indus Valley in Asia, and the Roman Empire in Europe are examples of great civilizations that thrived there. From the building of the majestic pyramids, to the intricate pottery in Indus Valley, to the philosophical debates in Ancient Greece, these regions hold a seamless continuity of human progress and evolution.
HOW IT WORKS/HOW TO START
Studying the Old World isn’t a straightforward task. There is a millennia-worth of history, cultures, languages, and traditions to unravel. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to start:
1. Choose a Starting Point: Since the Old World information is vast, the best way is to choose one aspect or region to begin with.
2. Gather Sources: Once you’ve chosen your starting point, gather information on the topic. You can start with websites dedicated to world history, anthropology, archaeology, and culture.
3. Read Books: Read beginner-friendly books about the chosen aspect or region.
4. Take Notes: Keep track of your learning by taking comprehensive notes.
For example, if you choose to begin with Ancient Egypt, your first actions would be to read about Egyptian civilization, its tradition, culture, language and its role in shaping the African continent’s history.
CE DONT VOUS AVEZ BESOIN POUR JOUER (MATÉRIEL, ÉQUIPEMENT, INSTALLATION)
As an amateur historian or a curious learner, you would need:
1. Books: Start with something simple and general before moving onto more specialized books.
2. Reference Material: Apart from books, you’d also need access to encyclopedias and online resources for credible information.
3. Notebooks: Keeping track of your learning is essential.
CONSEILS POUR LES GRANDS DÉBUTANTS
1. Be Patient: Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day. Learning about the vast expanse of the Old World takes time and dedication.
2. Grasp the Basics First: Before diving deep into specific regions/eras, have a general understanding of overall world history.
3. Open Your Mind: Be open to different ideas and ways of life that prevailed in different eras and regions.
4. Connect the dots: Try to find links and connections between various historical events, civilizations and cultures.
5. Engage in Discussions: There’s always more to learn from conversations. Join online forums or groups to engage in healthy discussions.
RESSOURCES UTILES
1. Websites: The British Museum has a vast online resource, as does Khan Academy’s World History.
2. YouTube Channels: Channels like CrashCourse and TED-Ed offer friendly, easy-to-understand animated videos.
3. Communities: Online communities like History Stack Exchange and Reddit’s AskHistorians are great places to engage in discussions.
GLOSSAIRE : EXPLICATION DES TERMES COURANTS
1. Age of Discovery: Era in history (15th-17th century) marked by extensive overseas exploration.
2. Archaeology: Study of human history and prehistory through the excavation of sites and analysis of artifacts.
3. Civilization: The stage of human social and cultural development and organization that is considered most advanced.
4. Anthropology: Study of humans, past and present.
5. Migration: Movement of people from one place to another.
LES PROCHAINES ÉTAPES : QUE FAIRE À PARTIR DE MAINTENANT ?
Now that you’ve dipped your toes into the ocean of the Old World, it’s time to take the dive! Depending on your interest, you can continue exploring African, Asian, or European history, or study them collectively. There are millions of books, documentaries, articles, and communities to navigate. Remember, the journey of studying history is long, but it’s also invigorating and enlightening. Happy exploring!
