History of Civilizations

If, like Nealon and Giroux say, history is written with an emphasis on the narrative, then the topic of Athens and Sparta creates a simplistic version of conflicts between states. It's much easier to understand two states fighting when one is seen as reckless and "bad" while the other is structured and "good." Athens and Sparta are prime examples of this ideology; assuming that all is black and white. It implies that society, upbrining and class standings influence events and the actions of a culture.

Like the chapter says, we can learn from history and grow from it. I'm not sure that our teachers choose to spend time on it as much as the books choose to cover the topic. Historians seem to believe that knowledge of this topic is beneficial. Perhaps this theory helps us to recognize violations against human rights and a group of people. One of the most important topics covered in this chapter addressed genocide and the importance of refusing to ignore it, not matter how terrible it may be.

Comparing Athens and Sparta to Star Trek simplified the topic even more finely. By comparing the presumably uncomprehensible past to a part of pop culture, it becomes accessible for a much wider audience. I have a very small amount of knowledge regarding Star Trek and the characters on the show, but through hearing the plot of the show from my dad, I can understand the situation between Athens and Sparta.

The "Clash of the Civilizations" theory reminds me a lot of the situation between the Israelis and Palestinians. As outsiders viewing a conflict, we often believe the myth "They've always hated each other;" however, as I've heard the book repeat over and over, the world is getting smaller and smaller. Events that take place on the other side of the world effect us more than we know.

It seems as though traditional history is continuously simplified. Maybe historians underestimate their audience and assume that we will not understand complex, unique situations. Depending on which country, book, school you are examining, it could seem that a specific history is forgotten. History usually leaves out countries and states where no significant conflict has occured.