Or you can think of it as “slamming down the corridors of history” with plenty of bloody splots on the walls as people go to extremes. You can keep score: “good ideas vs. bad ideas.” Put it on an Excel spreadsheet and turn it in to wow your instructor.

For extra credit, read “Eyewitness to History,” if you can stand it. Each section is written by a person who was actually present at and/or participated in some historic event. You’ll recognize many of the names and events if you have taken other history courses.

For a break, read “The Cartoon History of the Universe,” by Larry Gonick. Hysterical, but accurate.

Then (if you have time), read “Guns, Germs, and Steel.” It will change the way you look at historical events.

Don’t get hooked and neglect your other studies!

Hope this helps to get you through the *****!!