* Literature: Studying novels, poetry, drama, and other forms of written expression to understand human experience, values, and societal structures.
* History: Examining past events, societies, and individuals to understand how they shaped the present and to identify patterns and trends.
* Philosophy: Investigating fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language.
* Religion: Studying religious beliefs, practices, and institutions across cultures and throughout history.
* Art History: Analyzing visual arts, including painting, sculpture, architecture, and film, to understand their cultural and historical context and artistic techniques.
* Music: Exploring the history, theory, and cultural significance of music across different genres and periods.
* Languages: Studying the structure and evolution of languages and their role in shaping culture and communication.
* Performing Arts: Examining theatre, dance, and other performing arts forms, their history, and their role in society.
* Archaeology: Investigating human history and prehistory through the excavation and analysis of physical remains.
In essence, the humanities aim to foster critical thinking, improve communication skills, enhance understanding of different cultures and perspectives, and develop a deeper appreciation for the human experience across time and place. It's less about finding definitive answers and more about asking insightful questions and engaging in thoughtful interpretation.