How would it be to study mathematics at Cambridge with Isaac Newton? To take a grueling multi-day civil service exam in Tang Dynasty China? To study common law at the medieval Inns of Court? This class will explore the history of the university degree and formal education in general. We seek to explore why universities came into existence, the history of the European law degree, and the various social and political currents surrounding these changes. We will discuss the Protestant Reformation and humanist tradition in Europe, the Islamic Golden Age and resurgence of the classics in medieval Arabia, and even Plato's Academy. Come join us for the most meta course at ESP to learn about learning.