Roman Entertainment and Architecture

The audience participated in the action during chariot races instead of the mere spectators of the Native Americans and Ancient Greeks.  The entertainment also shifted to killing.  While still celebrating, a different form of entertainment was present.  In the Colosseum, spectators even had an impact on the performance, deciding whether some people lived or died.  Gladiators showcased newer military inventions than those of past performances.  Animals and technologies such as trap doors were used in the performances.  Seating was separated by class instead of the unorganized crowds of Native Americans and random seating of the Ancient Greeks.

The Romans introduced structures such as arches and domes that allowed for buildings to be larger and more appealing.  Cathedrals came from this.  Sounds changed from the excitement of crowds watching killing to focusing on peace and religion.  The focus shifts to religion rather than slaughter.

Native American and Ancient Greek Entertainment

Native American music and dances were very simple, with basic instruments used.  There were performances, but not formal seating.  This forced people to move around to watch and experience in a different way than performances today.  It is possible that their sounds and movements imitated their surroundings.  This could be a way to find meaning, similar to our present-day religion.  They could have admired nature and appreciated everything around them, as they were completely immersed in nature daily, depending on it to survive.

The Ancient Greeks made a theater to honor the gods, a large feat of human work.  Music was used in attempt to heal people at the theater, believing in the gods to help cure medical issues.  The theater was used for entertainment, linking entertainment and religion.  The Ancient Greeks had much more sophisticated performances than those of the Native Americans, but it was also artificial.  Acoustics were used to amplify sound, and the entire setting was man-made.

Response to Raul Cuero's Interview About Creativity

Dr. Cuero presents many ideas about his take on creativity in an interview.  He states that ideas come from communicating with others, and he believes that today, many people do not get this essential communication.  He believes we spend too much time indoors instead of exploring nature and sharing ideas.  He says that children no longer create their own way of thinking, and they simply follow a preset guide that everyone follows.  In the United States, there is a lack of intellectual culture, where families do not discuss philosophy and other concerns.  Children only learn at school and even then, only learn to get a mechanical job which is limited in that no thinking is required.

I found that many of Dr. Cuero's arguments only considered one side of the issue.  While communication is a part of creating new ideas, there are many other inputs such as hard work and individual experience.  While many people do not spend much time outside, there have still been advancements and inventions.  While the education system streamlines a way for everyone to learn, it is still critical for people to develop their own way of thinking, but learning from other peoples' mistakes and research can act as a foundation to promote further thinking.

Introduction

My name is Evan Ambrose.  I am currently a junior at the University of Tampa pursuing a B.S. in biochemistry.  I run track for the University of Tampa, with the 400m hurdles being my main event.