In Europe during the Middle Ages, the most learned philosopher and the humblestpeasant alike engaged in heated discussion and spectacular speculation on the subject
of "Wonders." The sports of Nature-Unicorns, Sea Serpents, Dragons, and Odd
Things Falling From the Sky; Signs in the Heavens; Human Prodigies; Dark Days;
Auroras & Comets; the deep mysteries of Earth & Heaven-all drew forth peoples'
astonishment and earnest questions. Are there not Wonders-and Marvels, Mysteries,
Myth, and Magic-in our age as well? Of course there are! But we moderns tend not
to be aware of them, and when they make headlines, we tend to dismiss them as fakes
or hallucinations.
An introduction to a new way of thinking about the Past, this "Brief History of the
World" follows a trail of Wonders over the course of the last five centuries. From the
extraordinary deeds of Joan of Arc to the mysteries of Aztec sacrifice to the workings
of the secret brotherhoods of East and West, you will hear a surprising tale of World
Destiny, one that inspires you to seek your own Grail within.

Dr. Kevin Dann teaches in the History Department at the State University of
New York at Plattsburgh.