Wednesday, January 24, 2007

Ivan the Terrible & Elizabeth I

So this semester I'm taking History of the World since 1500. It's been an interesting class so far. We're covering absolutist monarchs of the 16th century: Ivan the Terrible, Louis XIV, and Elizabeth I. Actually I didn't go to class the day we covered Louis, so I don't know what was so absolutist about him--except that he killed people who left the Catholic church.

We spent most of our time covering Ivan the Terrible--about a week!--because our professor is a Russian historian, and can really go on and on about it. Let me tell you, Ivan was pretty terrible! I'll spare you the grisley details, but suffice it to say, I thought I was going to throw up a couple of times. He makes Hitler look like a nice guy. Blech!

Today we covered Elizabeth I, and I was slightly disappointed in the lecture. I think that Elizabeth's reign is one of the most fascinating in history, and it bummed me out that we glossed over it one day--especially after a week of Ivan. Blech! I mean, the woman was one of the most powerful women in the history of the world; ruled England for 45 years; built the world's most powerful navy from nothing, and destroyed the Spanish Armada; expanded England's military, political, and economic power; formalized the Anglican faith, and brought religious peace to England; was a patron of the arts (Shakespeare anyone??); and had a most fascinating personal life. Wouldn't you agree that she deserves more than a quick, 40 minute summary?

The Rennaisance is one of the greatest cultural revolutions--ever!--and this is the time that England really rises into power and becomes one of the greatest forces in the Western world!! And we skip over all that for sick-o Ivan the Terrible?!? Blech!

OK, I've got that off my chest now. Maybe now my wounds can start to heal.

MAD

1 comment:

Cupcake said...

Poor Lissa! At least you don't have Pompous Ass for your teacher even though you would cover Elizabeth really well. . .which would you prefer?