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The programming
at right
is included in the
Road Scholar
MALTA: Keystone
of Mediterranean History
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Prehistoric
Cultures of Malta
Even though this miniature island has made various other significant
contributions to world heritage, there is no doubt that nothing rivals its
megalithic temples. Built in the period 3600 - 2500 B.C. by a small community
enjoying an extraordinary cultural efflorescence in almost complete isolation,
these buildings constitute architectural feats of the highest order. They show
an internal evolution in form (from the simple to the more complex,) size of
stone blocks used (from small to gigantic,) and in the artistic furnishings with
increasingly greater refinement and sophistication.
Caravaggio
in Malta
One of the most important and influential painters of the period, Michaelangelo
Merisi de Caravaggio led a colorful life that included both masterpieces and
captivity in Malta. His story is adventure and the work he left in
Malta includes two priceless treasures painted during his time as a
Knight of the Order.
The Three Great Monotheistic
Religions of the Mediterranean
An overview of the socio-religious context of the Middle East and
Mediterranean region with regard to the great faiths of the people of
the book: Judaism, Christianity, Islam.
The Hospitaller Order of St. John and the Siege of 1565
The advent of the Order in Malta led to a radical transformation in the role of
the island from an ill-defended barren island to the impregnable headquarters of
the crusading order. Their initial establishment was in the port of Birgu,
headquarters of the Siege of 1565, after which the city was named Vittoriosa
(“the victorious.”)
Malta
Under the British
Malta under the British was a different story than that of the brief French
colonization which immediately preceded. This lecture puts the colonization of
Malta into perspective with that of other colonies, from the 1800’s through to
1960’s.
Mediterranean
Music
This lecture will discuss the similarities and differences of popular music on
both the northern and southern shores of the Mediterranean, as well as the
ethnic music of various cultures, with reference to the music of Malta.
Malta's
Strategic Role in World War II
Britain's concept of Malta as a strategic fortress colony led to a situation
where the axis forces were particularly concerned to conquer the island,
especially as it served as a base for the conquest of North Africa.
The
Natural Maltese Environment
An introduction to the natural resources of Malta with historical evaluation
providing the listener with an understanding of their diversity and beauty, as
well as problematic (environmental) issues relating to Malta and Gozo.
The
Maltese Language
A brief introduction to the Semitic roots of the Maltese language, covering its
development in a social and political context to its contemporary usage.
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