HIS120 World History

M3D1: Primary Sources of the Axial Age

In this module, in addition to talking about the Axial Age, we've done a little work with practicing a skill necessary for a historian, analysis of primary sources.  In this discussion, we're going to practice that skill.

Your Initial Post:

Begin by viewing the Module Presentation and then reading Chapter 5 in your textbook. Make sure you have completed the M3A1: History Skills Tutorial: Analyzing Primary Source Documents Activity before beginning this discussion as well.

Then, read an excerpt from Athenian historian Thucydides’ history of the Peloponnesian War in Greece, often referred to as Pericles' Funeral Oration and look at the images in your textbook related to Greek city-states.

As you review the sources, consider the following questions in a post of at least 250 words:

After reading this excerpt, pretend you’re a teacher using the Pericles’ Funeral Oration primary source to teach your students about the city-state of Athens and how Athenians viewed their role in Greece.

• What can this source tell your students?
• What are its benefits and limitations as a source compared to the other primary sources in your text?