ESCI 135 - Volcanoes and Civilization

Semester Offered: Fall
1 unit(s)

Volcanic eruptions are awe inspiring events that easily capture our attention and imagination. The activity of Earth’s volcanoes is inextricably linked with our collective past as eruptions have triggered both regional and global environmental and climatic changes. This course explores the links between volcanism and human civilization. Emphasis is placed on eruptions that have altered the trajectory of human civilization, such as the eruption of Toba 74,000 years ago, the 79 AD eruption of Vesuvius, and the eruption of Tambora in 1815. We also consider how volcanoes could affect our collective future. John Zayac.

An optional field trip to an active volcano is possible.

Open only to first-year students; satisfies the college requirement for a First-Year Writing Seminar.

Two 75-minute periods.

Course Format: CLS