HUMN 303 Annotated Bibliography

Name

Chamberlain University

HUMN-303: Introduction to the Humanities

Prof. Name

Date

Annotated Bibliography

Historical Context of Women’s Rights

Women have struggled through significant hardships to attain their rights since the 19th century. Their fight for equality has spanned generations, with a historical lack of control over their reproductive health and limited opportunities to express their desires. The term “women’s rights” refers to “rights that promote a position of legal and social equality of women with men” (Google). Women have demonstrated their right to equal treatment and opportunities in the workplace.

According to Howard-Hassmann (2011), the women’s rights movement underwent a substantial transformation in the late 19th century, advancing the cause of women’s equality. This movement enhanced women’s autonomy in both familial and public spheres, expanding educational and economic opportunities. This increase in agency allowed women to navigate their diverse identities, roles, and obligations (p. 436). Some critics have questioned whether human rights are inherently gendered, suggesting that traditional human rights often reflect male experiences, thus marginalizing women’s roles as active agents in society (p. 439).

Evolution of Women’s Roles in Society

In the early 19th century, societal expectations relegated women primarily to child-rearing and domestic responsibilities. Men feared the shifting social roles of women and resisted granting them rights. Abrams (2015) examines whether the abortion debate stems from moral concerns or reflects deeper issues of gender relations (p. 179). Women seeking abortions were often labeled “bad mothers” as a means to impose guilt and control (p. 180). This perception reinforced stereotypes that portrayed women as too emotional and incapable of making rational decisions regarding their health (p. 185).

The modern women’s rights movement in the United States emerged in the 1960s as a reaction to longstanding social inequities. Loveday (2009) outlines the movement’s significant milestones, including the rise of feminism during World War II, the publication of The Feminine Mystique, and the establishment of the National Organization for Women (NOW). Despite significant progress, challenges persist in achieving true equality. For instance, after World War II, many women were displaced from their jobs, which were reassigned to returning servicemen, demonstrating the prevailing belief that women’s contributions were temporary and secondary (Loveday, 2009, p. 1).

Contemporary Challenges and Opportunities

Zuzana and Pavel (2013) highlight the educational achievements of women, noting that in many wealthy countries, girls outperform boys academically and earn more university degrees. They play a crucial role in economic decision-making and contribute significantly to the workforce (p. 27). However, disparities in management roles persist, with slow advancement for women in senior positions being viewed as a waste of talent (p. 28).

Haghighat (2013) emphasizes that the challenges faced by women in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) cannot be solely attributed to Islam. Instead, Islam is often utilized by those in power to justify the limitation of women’s rights and resources. A nuanced understanding of demographic, economic, and political factors is necessary to fully grasp the complexities of women’s empowerment in this region. Empowerment occurs when women can express their needs and interests without external imposition (p. 247).

References

• Abrams, P. (2015). The bad mother: Stigma, abortion and surrogacy. The Journal of Law, Medicine & Ethics, 43(2), 179-191. https://doi.org/10.1111/jlme.12231
• Haghighat, E. (2013). Social status and change: The question of access to resources and women’s empowerment in the Middle East and North Africa. Journal of International Women’s Studies, 14(1), 273-299. Retrieved from http://vc.bridgew.edu/jiws/vol14/iss1/17
• Howard-Hassmann, R. E. (2011). Universal women’s rights since 1970: The centrality of autonomy and agency. Journal of Human Rights, 10(4), 433-449. https://doi.org/10.1080/14754835.2011.619398
• Loveday, V. (2009). Feminism & the women’s rights movement. Feminism & the Women’s Rights Movement, 1.
• Zuzana, D., & Pavel, S. (2013). The potential of women and the 21st century. Research Journal of Economics, Business and ICT, (1).

HUMN 303 Week 8 Assignment: Essay Interrelationships Reflection

Name

Chamberlain University

HUMN-303: Introduction to the Humanities

Prof. Name

Date

Echo of a Scream: David Alfaro Siqueiros’ Artistic Expression

One artwork that profoundly resonates with audiences is Echo of a Scream, created by the renowned Mexican muralist David Alfaro Siqueiros in 1937. Siqueiros, who fought during the Mexican Revolution, infused his art with a strong political sensibility, as noted by Martin and Jacobus (2018). This piece is rendered in enamel on wood and serves as a powerful representation of human emotion, particularly sadness and pain. As described by Lumen Learning (n.d.), art embodies “the expression or application of human creative skill and imagination,” which Siqueiros exemplifies in this work.

The emotional depth of Echo of a Scream is striking, as it evokes a visceral response from viewers. Siqueiros likely drew upon his tumultuous experiences in the military and the societal issues he witnessed, contributing to the dark and somber tone of his art. According to The Art Story (n.d.), Siqueiros was unafraid to intertwine his political views with his artistic endeavors, challenging societal norms through his work. While some may consider his art “too dark” or “depressing,” I believe Siqueiros confronts us with the harsh realities of our society.

In a world where many may view life through an overly optimistic lens, it is essential to acknowledge the struggles faced by countless individuals grappling with poverty, hunger, and conflict. Echo of a Scream serves as a reminder that although beauty exists in the world, it is not devoid of imperfection. Over the past eight weeks in this class, my understanding and appreciation of art have deepened significantly. I have come to realize that art conveys meaningful messages, and it is up to each viewer to interpret them in their own way.

This dynamic mirrors everyday life, where communication is often nuanced, and the receiver must determine how to process what is being conveyed. Art facilitates a profound emotional connection, allowing us to engage with the complexities of human experience.

References

Lumen Learning. (n.d.). Boundless Art History. Retrieved August 28, 2020, from https://courses.lumenlearning.com/boundless-arthistory/chapter/what-is-art/

HUMN 303 Week 8 Assignment: Essay Interrelationships Reflection

Martin, F. D., & Jacobus, L. A. (2018). The Humanities Through the Arts. New York: McGraw-Hill Education.
The Art Story. (n.d.). Siqueiros Biography, Life & Quotes. Retrieved August 28, 2020, from https://m.theartstory.org/artist/siqueiros-david-alfaro/life-and-legacy/

HUMN 303 Week 7 Assignment: Controversial Art and Censorship Submit Assignment

Name

Chamberlain University

HUMN-303: Introduction to the Humanities

Prof. Name

Date

Controversial Art: A Historical Perspective

In recent years, many artworks have sparked controversy and faced removal from public spaces due to their perceived offensiveness. Such contentious pieces often serve as critiques of societal norms, pushing boundaries in various forms including music, literature, and visual arts. As highlighted by ICON (n.d.), artists throughout history have utilized mediums such as painting, photography, sculpture, and installations to address political statements, social issues, and religious beliefs. Many artists have ventured into morally ambiguous territory, prompting discussions around the implications of their work.

One significant example of controversial art is The Nude Maja, created by the Spanish artist Francisco Goya between 1797 and 1800. This oil painting, which is part of a two-piece series, depicts a reclining nude woman with her hands behind her head, accompanied by a subtle smile. Goya’s use of a dark background accentuates the figure, adding an air of mystery to the composition. The identity of the model has been a subject of debate among art historians; some speculate she was the mistress of Prime Minister Manuel de Godoy, while others suggest she was Goya’s own mistress (The Art Encyclopedia, 2020). The painting was displayed at the Academy of Fine Arts in San Fernando from 1808 to 1813 but was later removed for 23 years due to the Spanish Inquisition’s condemnation of its perceived immorality (Aaron Art Prints, n.d.).

HUMN 303 Week 7 Assignment: Controversial Art and Censorship Submit Assignment

The Nude Maja has not only stirred controversy but also influenced other artists. Jeffrey Meyers notes in Impressionist Quartet that Édouard Manet’s Olympia “boldly alluded to another masterpiece, Goya’s Naked Maja” (Meyers, 2016). In 1930, two sets of stamps were issued to commemorate Goya’s work, showcasing The Nude Maja alongside its clothed counterpart. According to Martin and Jacobus (2018), a piece is considered art if it meets three criteria: it is created by an artist, intended as art, and recognized as such by experts. Although some may find The Nude Maja obscene, it possesses the essential qualities of fine art, including masterful use of color, light, and expression.

In contemporary society, the interpretation of art as obscene or immoral often lies in the hands of the viewer. Individuals should have the autonomy to decide what they wish to engage with, particularly when they are financially supporting such works. However, there exists a delicate balance between artistic freedom and the government’s role in censorship. In public spaces, where artworks may expose children to controversial themes, there may be justification for governmental intervention to remove such pieces.

References

Aaron Art Prints. (n.d.). Retrieved August 19, 2020, from https://www.aaronartprints.org/goya-thenudemaja.php

Art on Stamp. (n.d.). The Clothed and The Naked Maja by Goya. Retrieved August 19, 2020, from https://www.artonstamps.org/goya.htm

Meyers, J. (2016). Impressionist Quartet: The Intimate Genius of Manet and Morisot, Degas and Cassatt. Southbank Publishing.
ICON. (n.d.). 10 of the most controversial artworks in modern times. Retrieved August 18, 2020, from https://icon.ink/articles/controversial-art-history/

HUMN 303 Week 7 Assignment: Controversial Art and Censorship Submit Assignment

Martin, F. D., & Jacobus, L. A. (2018). The Humanities Through the Arts. New York: McGraw-Hill Education.
The Art Encyclopedia. (2020, May 08). Nude Maja, 1800 – Francisco Goya. Retrieved August 19, 2020, from https://www.wikiart.org/en/francisco-goya/nude-maja-1800

HUMN 303 Week 6 Assignment: Essay–Art Creation & Reflection – Photography/Cinema

Name

Chamberlain University

HUMN-303: Introduction to the Humanities

Prof. Name

Date

Art Creation & Reflection – Photography/Cinema

Since the advent of photography in 1839, when Louis J. M. Daguerre first introduced the daguerreotype using silver-coated plates, many artists expressed concern over the potential devaluation of painting. Initially, photographs were monochrome and quite different from vibrant paintings. However, the ability to quickly and easily capture moments through a camera fundamentally transformed the art world. As photographic techniques advanced, photography began to stand as a formidable competitor to traditional painting. Today, virtually everyone uses smartphones to take photographs, which come equipped with numerous features that facilitate editing, cropping, brightening, and even altering images through software like Photoshop.

For my own artistic pursuits, I draw inspiration from nature, particularly birds. A remarkable series by BBC, titled “Seven Worlds, One Planet,” has greatly influenced my work. According to The Times (2019), the series “covers a different continent in each episode, showcasing stunning footage captured over four years across 92 film shoots in more than 40 countries” (p. 23). One particular episode focused on South America, highlighting a birdwatching tour that sought to find and film the rare Hyacinth Macaw, one of the largest and most beautiful parrots in the world. This resonates with me personally, as my first pet was a parrot that lived with me for over 16 years, forging a deep connection with these birds.

HUMN 303 Week 6 Assignment: Essay–Art Creation & Reflection – Photography/Cinema

Recently, while visiting a park, I encountered a small bird bathing in a fountain, which reminded me of the documentary. I attempted to capture this moment with my camera, moving it up and down and zooming in and out, but ultimately lost track of the little bird. Unlike the skilled cameramen in the documentary, who adeptly followed the movements of animals and captured realistic images, my attempts fell short. Despite being just a step away from my subject, I struggled to maintain focus, which diminished the realism of my footage.

In conclusion, although smartphones are equipped with advanced features, creating a compelling video remains a complex task. I found it particularly challenging to edit my footage and incorporate appropriate music, leading me to leave the video in its original form.

References

Martin, F. D. (2019). Humanities through the Arts. [VitalSource Bookshelf]. Retrieved from https://online.vitalsource.com/#/books/9781260154238/

BBC Earth. (n.d.). Saving the blue parrots of South America. Retrieved from https://www.bbcearth.com/blog/?article=saving-the-blue-parrots-of-south-america

HUMN 303 Week 6 Assignment: Essay–Art Creation & Reflection – Photography/Cinema

The Times. (2019, October 26). p. 23. Retrieved from https://chamberlainuniversity.idm.oclc.org/login?url=https://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=n5h&AN=7EH154176197&site=eds-live&scope=site

HUMN 303 Week 5 Assignment: Essay Art Creation Music/Dance/Poetry

Name

Chamberlain University

HUMN-303: Introduction to the Humanities

Prof. Name

Date

Introduction

Poetry

The artwork I have chosen to create is a poem, a medium with which I am deeply familiar and profoundly appreciative. At its core, poetry intertwines storytelling and lyricism, possessing the unique ability to evoke emotions, impart wisdom, and inspire individuals. This art form can manifest in various styles, from structured rhymes to free verse, and can vary in length and complexity.

Poetry has the power to move readers, eliciting laughter, tears, or deep reflection. Like other artistic expressions—such as visual art, narratives, plays, and dance—poems convey a story, message, or idea that the author wishes to communicate to their audience. They serve as bridges for communication, encapsulating the poet’s thoughts, emotions, and experiences, inviting readers to derive personal meaning from the words.

Through poetry, messages can encompass a range of themes, from resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity to expressions of support for those in need. Poems can uplift, console, provoke thought, and inspire change, establishing profound connections that transcend time, culture, and language.

Summary

In summary, poetry occupies a special place in my heart, captivating me with its ability to encapsulate the human experience. Its versatility and power to convey messages and evoke emotions make it an essential medium for self-expression and fostering understanding among individuals.

Depth of Soul

At times, when I gaze into the mirror, I am reminded of the powerful queen residing within me. I gently adjust my crown when it slips, ensuring it does not contribute to my downfall.

Even as the mirror fogs amidst a lavender-scented steam from my shower—something I often take for granted—my soul is intricately woven through the artistry of my poetry. With gentle whispers, I share fragments of gold that touch the depths of longing souls, providing them with a sense of home and belonging.

While I may not possess a kingdom or a place to call my own, I am willing to sacrifice a part of myself for my people. This sacrifice stems from a desire to prevent others from feeling their hearts slip away. In the emptiness they once felt, I sought to fill it with the love I had to give.

HUMN 303 Week 5 Assignment: Essay Art Creation Music/Dance/Poetry

Yet, there are moments when this dedication nearly consumes me. Time attempts to rob me of my essence, easing pain with fleeting moments of relief. I thought I had everything under control until I became a victim of my own emotions.

Within those thoughts, beauty intertwines with darkness, hidden in intricate depths. It’s no trivial matter, and I do not speak lightly. I trusted those thoughts, yet forgiveness has eluded me.

In those moments of near forgetfulness, a simple two-second hug, a phone call despite the distance, a letter filled with blank pages and cherished memories, a mile run as the wind kisses my face, or a moment to catch my breath—all it takes is a single step.

The Courage of Love

In that step lies the reminder of my strength, resilience, and capacity to overcome life’s complexities.

The poem that inspired me is titled “Before I…” by Aniya K. Pantanal. The author’s intent was to convey that loving oneself and pursuing dreams does not require extraordinary effort; it simply takes a little courage. This message resonates with me, especially in a world where many struggle with anxiety and depression. Some succumb to these challenges, while others find a way to navigate them, either independently or with the support of loved ones.

HUMN 303 Week 5 Assignment: Essay Art Creation Music/Dance/Poetry

Having witnessed friends endure dark times—whether from the loss of a loved one or financial hardships—I felt compelled to write a poem that delves into the experience of someone grappling with depression. I titled my poem “I’m All It Takes.”

The inspiration for my poem stems from my connection with someone currently battling depression. This individual struggles to see their worth and feels lost amid their challenges. Although we lost contact for a few months, when we were in touch, they shared their struggles and feelings of having lost their spark. My friends, like queens in their own realms, each embody a beautiful story unfolding with every breath. I aimed to capture this person’s experience in my poem, reminding them of their inherent value and strength.

Challenges Imposed by the World on Individual Spirit

The connection between the two poems lies in their mutual focus on individuals struggling to recognize their worth while navigating external challenges. The inspiration from the original poem shaped the themes and messages conveyed in my piece. Both works explore the notion of losing oneself to the burdens imposed by the world.

However, the perspectives diverge. The original poem emphasizes resilience and the importance of not succumbing to hardships, encouraging individuals to build themselves up despite obstacles. In contrast, my poem highlights the impact of small acts of kindness and connection in uplifting those battling depression. It underscores the significance of gestures like a simple hug, a phone call, or a heartfelt letter.

Moreover, the two poems differ in their mediums. The original poem employs concise lines to effectively convey its message, while my poem utilizes longer sentences to express deeper ideas. The chosen medium profoundly influences the message’s delivery, with its effectiveness resting on the author’s ability to harness that medium to create a lasting impact on the reader.

HUMN 303 Week 5 Assignment: Essay Art Creation Music/Dance/Poetry

References

Accepting Who You Are, Before I…, Change Poem. (2017). Family Friend Poems. Retrieved from https://www.familyfriendpoems.com/poem/before-i

HUMN 303 Week 4 Discussion

Name

Chamberlain University

HUMN-303: Introduction to the Humanities

Prof. Name

Date

Week 4 Discussion: Literary Movements

Professor Morris and Class,

For this week’s discussion, I have selected the literary movement known as realism. This movement originated in France during the 1850s, emerging in the aftermath of the 1848 Revolution. The decline of the British Empire significantly influenced the development of realism. Realists distanced themselves from Romanticism, opposing its exotic themes and exaggerated emotional expression (Jacobus & Martin, 2019).

One prominent example of literary realism is The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain, published in 1888. The narrative follows Huckleberry Finn, a friend of Tom Sawyer, who experiences a life of poverty and abuse at the hands of his alcoholic father. Huck escapes down the river with Jim, a runaway slave who fears being sold away from his wife and children. Throughout the novel, Huck grapples with the moral complexities of slavery and Jim’s quest for freedom. The only moments of true freedom for Huck and Jim occur while they drift on their raft.

HUMN 303 Week 4 Discussion

However, their autonomy is disrupted when the duke and king commandeer the raft, compelling them to scam townspeople along the river. Ultimately, the duke and king sell Jim back into slavery. Huck attempts to rescue Jim, but is mistaken for Tom Sawyer. Tom arrives and pretends to be his brother Sid, joining Huck in the effort to liberate Jim. During the escape, Tom is shot in the leg by a farmer, and Jim refuses to abandon him, resulting in Jim’s recapture. In a twist, Jim learns that his former owner had died and freed him in her will, a fact Tom was aware of all along (History.com Editors, 2009).

Realism aims to represent reality by depicting ordinary experiences with honesty and clarity, employing straightforward language and detail. This genre avoids embellishment and euphemism. In The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, the narrative is presented in Huck’s Missourian dialect, reinforcing its realistic portrayal. Realism often focuses on relatable characters and settings, particularly from the middle and lower classes. Huck’s impoverished upbringing and Jim’s status as a slave highlight the political and historical issues of slavery, racism, and societal attitudes. Jim is depicted as strong, brave, and loyal despite his forced servitude, while many white characters exhibit violence and selfishness.

References

Jacobus, L.A., & Martin, F.D. (2019). The Humanities through the Arts. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Education.

History.com Editors. (2009). Mark Twain publishes “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.” History. https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/twain-publishes-the-adventures-of-huckleberry-finn

HUMN 303 Week 3 Art Creation & Reflection – Sculpture, Painting, or Drawing

Name

Chamberlain University

HUMN-303: Introduction to the Humanities

Prof. Name

Date

Week 3 Art Creation & Reflection – Sculpture, Painting, or Drawing

Art serves as a powerful medium for expression, allowing artists to convey a multitude of concepts and emotions. Inspiration for art can stem from various sources, including emotions, experiences, environments, or muses. Art transcends mere aesthetics; it communicates narratives that artists wish to share. Interestingly, each viewer brings their unique perspective, interpreting artworks in diverse ways and often crafting their own stories.

My Inspiration

For my inspiration piece, I selected Paul Cézanne’s oil painting titled Mont Sainte-Victoire, created between 1886 and 1887. This artwork depicts the iconic mountain near Cézanne’s hometown of Aix-en-Provence, France. The mountain, often regarded as a sacred site in local lore, served as a prominent muse throughout Cézanne’s landscape work (Martin & Jacobus, 2018). Viewing this painting evokes a sense of tranquility within me, attributed to its harmonious blend of green, yellow, and blue hues. Nature has consistently been a source of joy and peace for me; witnessing its vibrancy represents hope in our world.

The emotional resonance of colors and textures in art profoundly influences how viewers feel. For instance, brighter colors typically elicit positive emotions (Sutton & Altarriba, 2015). In contrast, in Week 2’s assignment, I analyzed Pablo Picasso’s The Old Guitarist, a work steeped in melancholy, characterized by somber tones of gray, dark blue, and black. Cézanne was held in high regard by Picasso, who referred to him as his “one and only master” (The Art Story, 2019). The divergence in their artistic styles illustrates the peaceful life Cézanne led, contrasting with Picasso’s experiences during his Blue Period.

My Creation

Inspired by Cézanne’s landscape, I created a drawing entitled “Just 3 Flowers.” In my work, I illustrated rolling hills, with smaller hills receding into the background to create depth. Utilizing colored pencils and a black marker, I employed distinct lines to delineate the hills and flowers. I chose various shades of green for the hills, reminiscent of Cézanne’s landscapes. The flowers in my piece feature blue petals and orange centers, symbolizing the sky and sun, respectively. Though my drawing includes only three flowers, they embody the themes of peace, hope, and happiness that I hold for myself, my loved ones, and the world.

Connection

Both Cézanne’s Mont Sainte-Victoire and my drawing are united by their thematic celebration of nature, representing positivity, peace, and hope. While both artworks depict landscapes, they differ in line precision, shape, and texture. They highlight various elements of nature, such as hills, mountains, trees, and flowers, creating a visual representation of beauty. The most notable difference lies in my self-perception as an artist; I have never considered myself skilled in drawing or painting—perhaps abstract art is the best I could achieve. In contrast, Cézanne is regarded as one of the most influential artists of his era, inspiring many, including Picasso. His reliance on real-life landscapes imbued his creations with profound significance, a contrast to the simpler meaning I have ascribed to my work. Nevertheless, I find solace in my drawing, seeking to replicate the calmness I experienced while viewing Mont Sainte-Victoire. As I navigate nursing school during a pandemic, I long for that sense of relaxation and tranquility. My 30 minutes spent on this drawing provided a much-needed respite, revealing to me a new hobby that can offer peace amidst stressful times.

HUMN 303 Week 3 Art Creation & Reflection – Sculpture, Painting, or Drawing

References

The Art Story. (2019). Pablo Picasso. Retrieved from The Art Story: https://www.theartstory.org/artist/picasso-pablo/

Martin, F. D., & Jacobus, L. A. (2018). The humanities through the arts (10th ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill Education.

Sutton, T. M., & Altarriba, J. (2015). Color associations to emotion and emotion-laden words: A collection of norms for stimulus construction and selection. Behavior Research Methods, 48(2), 686-728. https://doi.org/10.3758/s13428-015-0598-8

HUMN 303 Week 3 Art Creation & Reflection – Sculpture, Painting, or Drawing

Visual Art. (n.d.). Mont Sainte-Victoire paintings (1882-1906). Retrieved from http://www.visual-arts-cork.com/paintings-analysis/montagne-sainte-victoire.htm

HUMN 303 Week 2 Discussion

Name

Chamberlain University

HUMN-303: Introduction to the Humanities

Prof. Name

Date

The Importance of Humanities in Health Professions: Enhancing Nursing Through Art and Literature

In the ever-evolving landscape of health professions, the value of studying the humanities cannot be overstated. Disciplines such as art and literature play a critical role in shaping the skills and perspectives of healthcare professionals, particularly nurses. This article explores how humanities enrich nursing practices by enhancing observation skills, fostering cultural sensitivity, and promoting creativity.

Enhancing Observation Skills Through Art

One of the primary benefits of integrating art into nursing education is the improvement of observation skills. Engaging with art requires individuals to slow down and carefully analyze visual elements, fostering a heightened sense of awareness. This practice is crucial in nursing, where keen observation can lead to better patient outcomes. By training their eyes to notice subtle details in artworks, nurses learn to observe patients more attentively, enabling them to detect changes in condition and respond accordingly.

The art of observation encourages nurses to engage with patients without preconceived notions, ultimately fostering a more compassionate and understanding approach to care. This aligns with the goal of patient-centered care, where understanding each patient’s unique needs and circumstances is paramount.

Appreciating Diverse Perspectives Through Literature

Studying literature opens the door to a world of diverse opinions and approaches, which is invaluable in the nursing profession. Nurses often care for patients from various cultural, religious, and socio-economic backgrounds, making it essential to appreciate and respect their unique perspectives.

Literature challenges individuals to empathize with characters from different walks of life, fostering an understanding of the complexities of human experience. This cultural awareness translates into better communication and rapport with patients, leading to improved trust and collaboration in the healthcare setting. A nurse who values different perspectives can tailor care to align with patients’ beliefs and preferences, enhancing the overall quality of care.

Fostering Creativity and Innovation

The study of art not only sharpens observation skills but also nurtures creativity—an essential attribute in the healthcare profession. Just as artists use diverse techniques and color palettes to convey emotions, nurses can draw from their creative training to develop innovative solutions in their practice.

For instance, artworks like Georges Seurat’s A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte demonstrate how attention to detail can inspire new ideas. This iconic piece captures a moment of leisure, showcasing how various individuals coexist harmoniously in a shared space. Nurses can draw parallels from such works, recognizing that diverse skill sets and perspectives can come together to create a more effective healthcare team.

Similarly, Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa exemplifies harmony among varied elements. In the nursing context, this idea translates to working collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team to achieve successful patient outcomes. By embracing creativity and collaboration, nurses can develop unique strategies to address complex challenges in patient care.

Open-Mindedness: A Personal and Professional Asset

One of the most significant lessons derived from the humanities is the importance of remaining open to new ideas. Exposure to various artistic expressions cultivates a mindset receptive to innovation and change. For healthcare professionals, this quality is crucial, as the medical field is continuously evolving with new technologies, treatments, and patient needs.

Artists often challenge societal norms and introduce groundbreaking concepts through their work. Similarly, healthcare professionals must be willing to adapt and embrace new methodologies to enhance their practice. By cultivating an open mind, nurses can navigate the complexities of patient care more effectively, leading to improved patient outcomes and satisfaction.

Conclusion

The humanities, particularly art and literature, offer invaluable tools for healthcare professionals, particularly nurses. By enhancing observation skills, promoting cultural sensitivity, fostering creativity, and encouraging open-mindedness, the humanities empower nurses to provide holistic and compassionate care. As the field of health professions continues to advance, integrating the lessons from the humanities will undoubtedly enrich the practice of nursing, leading to a more empathetic and effective healthcare system.

References

Jacobus, L.A. & Martin, F.D. (2019). The Humanities Through the Arts. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Education (pages 42-90) https://mymodernmet.com/elements-of-art-visual-culture/

HUMN 303 Week 2 Discussion

Summer, Laura. (2003). The Elements of Painting. LILIPO. Bibliographic Records: 12/01/2003. Retrieved 7/12/20 from Chamberlain library via webscohost.com.chamberlainuniversity.idm.oclc.org (pages 65-69)

HUMN 303 Week 1 Discussion

Name

Chamberlain University

HUMN-303: Introduction to the Humanities

Prof. Name

Date

The Importance of Humanities in Health Professions: Enhancing Nursing Through Art and Literature

In the ever-evolving landscape of health professions, the value of studying the humanities cannot be overstated. Disciplines such as art and literature play a critical role in shaping the skills and perspectives of healthcare professionals, particularly nurses. This article explores how humanities enrich nursing practices by enhancing observation skills, fostering cultural sensitivity, and promoting creativity.

Enhancing Observation Skills Through Art

One of the primary benefits of integrating art into nursing education is the improvement of observation skills. Engaging with art requires individuals to slow down and carefully analyze visual elements, fostering a heightened sense of awareness. This practice is crucial in nursing, where keen observation can lead to better patient outcomes. By training their eyes to notice subtle details in artworks, nurses learn to observe patients more attentively, enabling them to detect changes in condition and respond accordingly.

The art of observation encourages nurses to engage with patients without preconceived notions, ultimately fostering a more compassionate and understanding approach to care. This aligns with the goal of patient-centered care, where understanding each patient’s unique needs and circumstances is paramount.

Appreciating Diverse Perspectives Through Literature

Studying literature opens the door to a world of diverse opinions and approaches, which is invaluable in the nursing profession. Nurses often care for patients from various cultural, religious, and socio-economic backgrounds, making it essential to appreciate and respect their unique perspectives.

Literature challenges individuals to empathize with characters from different walks of life, fostering an understanding of the complexities of human experience. This cultural awareness translates into better communication and rapport with patients, leading to improved trust and collaboration in the healthcare setting. A nurse who values different perspectives can tailor care to align with patients’ beliefs and preferences, enhancing the overall quality of care.

Fostering Creativity and Innovation

The study of art not only sharpens observation skills but also nurtures creativity—an essential attribute in the healthcare profession. Just as artists use diverse techniques and color palettes to convey emotions, nurses can draw from their creative training to develop innovative solutions in their practice.

For instance, artworks like Georges Seurat’s A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte demonstrate how attention to detail can inspire new ideas. This iconic piece captures a moment of leisure, showcasing how various individuals coexist harmoniously in a shared space. Nurses can draw parallels from such works, recognizing that diverse skill sets and perspectives can come together to create a more effective healthcare team.

HUMN 303 Week 1 Discussion

Similarly, Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa exemplifies harmony among varied elements. In the nursing context, this idea translates to working collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team to achieve successful patient outcomes. By embracing creativity and collaboration, nurses can develop unique strategies to address complex challenges in patient care.

Open-Mindedness: A Personal and Professional Asset

One of the most significant lessons derived from the humanities is the importance of remaining open to new ideas. Exposure to various artistic expressions cultivates a mindset receptive to innovation and change. For healthcare professionals, this quality is crucial, as the medical field is continuously evolving with new technologies, treatments, and patient needs.

Artists often challenge societal norms and introduce groundbreaking concepts through their work. Similarly, healthcare professionals must be willing to adapt and embrace new methodologies to enhance their practice. By cultivating an open mind, nurses can navigate the complexities of patient care more effectively, leading to improved patient outcomes and satisfaction.

Conclusion

The humanities, particularly art and literature, offer invaluable tools for healthcare professionals, particularly nurses. By enhancing observation skills, promoting cultural sensitivity, fostering creativity, and encouraging open-mindedness, the humanities empower nurses to provide holistic and compassionate care. As the field of health professions continues to advance, integrating the lessons from the humanities will undoubtedly enrich the practice of nursing, leading to a more empathetic and effective healthcare system.

References

Martin, F., & Jacobus, L. (2018). The humanities through the arts. New York: McGraw-Hill Education. Russell, P. (2019). Delphi Complete Paintings of Georges Seurat (Illustrated). Melbourne, Australia: Delphi Classics