Subfields in Humanities
Philosophy
The study of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language.
History
The study of past events, particularly in human affairs, analyzing sources and interpreting evidence.
Literature
The analysis, interpretation, and creation of written works, exploring themes, structures, and cultural contexts.
Linguistics
The scientific study of language, including its structure, meaning, and context, as well as its social and psychological aspects.
Cultural Studies
An interdisciplinary field that examines cultural phenomena in various societies, focusing on practices, beliefs, and identities.
Religious Studies
The academic exploration of religious beliefs, practices, and institutions, analyzing their historical and social contexts.
Art History
The study of visual arts in historical contexts, including the analysis of works of art, architecture, and design.
Ethics
The branch of philosophy concerned with questions of morality, examining concepts of right and wrong behavior.
Archaeology
The study of human history through the excavation and analysis of material remains, including artifacts and structures.
Anthropology
The study of humans, their societies, cultures, and development, encompassing various perspectives such as cultural, social, and physical anthropology.
Gender Studies
An interdisciplinary field analyzing gender identity, roles, and relations, often interrogating power structures in society.
Media Studies
The examination of media technologies, communication practices, and cultural impacts, focusing on their roles in society.
Theory and Criticism
The analysis of theoretical approaches to humanities disciplines, including critical methodologies and frameworks for interpretation.
Folklore Studies
The study of traditional beliefs, customs, stories, and practices of a culture, often exploring oral traditions and narratives.
Performing Arts
The study and practice of disciplines such as theater, music, and dance, analyzing their cultural significance and artistic expressions.
Digital Humanities
An interdisciplinary field that applies computational tools and methods to humanities research and scholarship.
Visual Culture
The study of visual imagery and its significance within culture, including the analysis of photographs, films, and digital media.