Week 4 Discussion Option A

“China and its Great Wall” Please respond to the following, using sources under the Explore heading as the basis of your response:

• Describe two (2) specific aspects about the Great Wall of China, such as facts about its size, length, purposes, varied materials, labor force, and its phases of construction. Consider the various purposes of such a wall and its impact for good or bad, and compare the Chinese wall in this respect to some specific wall of more modern times.

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China and Its Great Wall

Week 4 Discussion Option B

“Constantinople’s Hagia Sophia” Please respond to the following, using sources under the Explore heading as the basis of your response:

• In considering Constantinople’s Hagia Sophia, describe the primary techniques that the architects used to keep such a large dome from collapsing. Explain the key aspects of the design that allow light inside of the Hagia Sophia, and speculate on the comments that Augustine might have had on the importance of this design feature. Of the Byzantine mosaics in Chapter 8 and in the Explore area, identify the one (1) that you enjoy most. Then, explain the message that it was intended to communicate to the medieval worshipper. Identify one (1) specific work of art in modern times that communicates in some similar way, whether for religious, political, or ideological purposes.

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Constantinople’s Hagia Sophia