What makes us human? That’s a question that has shaped centuries of debate, sparked entire fields of research, and filled countless pages of philosophy, anthropology, and history. Yet, time and again, the answer draws us back to the same thread: our ability to make meaning through art and symbols.
From ochre markings in Paleolithic caves to the dazzling spectrum of modern creativity, symbolic thinking sits at the core of who we are. It’s not just about painting, carving, or composing. It’s about how humans have always taken the raw material of the world and shaped it into something that speaks beyond survival—toward imagination, identity, and community.
This fall, historian and educator Genevieve von Petzinger is offering a new live course through Roundtable.org, titled The Origins of Art and Symbolic Thinking. It’s an opportunity to not just learn about humanity’s creative roots but to step into the conversation yourself. And the best part? There are scholarships available to make it accessible to as many people as possible.
Why This Class Matters
The course dives into one of the most fascinating frontiers in human history: the emergence of symbolic expression. This is not just an academic footnote. It’s a story about identity—about when our ancestors first began to see the world not only as it was but as it could be imagined.
Genevieve is uniquely positioned to lead this journey. Her work has focused on the earliest known symbols and art in the archaeological record. These engravings, abstract shapes, and cave paintings speak volumes about the cognitive and cultural worlds of early humans. Through her scholarship and teaching, Genevieve makes these deep-time questions accessible and engaging to all learners, whether you’re new to the topic or a seasoned enthusiast.
This course isn’t simply about absorbing information. It’s about engaging with the debates and the evidence. When did symbolic thought truly begin? How do we define art in a deep history context? And what can ancient creativity teach us about the way we use symbols today—from emojis to digital avatars?
What You’ll Get Out of It
Here’s a taste of what participants can expect:
- Deep Learning, Accessible FormatThe course is hosted live, meaning you’re not just watching a video but actively engaging in a classroom environment. You’ll have the chance to interact directly with Genevieve, ask questions, and join a community of curious minds.
- A Journey Through TimeExpect to move from the earliest symbolic scratch marks left by Homo erectus and Neanderthals to the breathtaking cave art traditions of Homo sapiens. Each step adds to our understanding of how humans evolved not just biologically, but culturally.
- Critical Thinking ToolsThis is more than a history lesson. Genevieve brings in discussions about how we interpret evidence, the role of creativity in evolution, and what counts as “art” in different contexts. These tools sharpen not just your understanding of the past, but your ability to reflect on the present.
- Global and Inclusive PerspectivesRather than focusing only on the most famous European caves, the course highlights sites and traditions across continents, reminding us that the story of art is truly a shared human legacy.
- Practical TakeawaysBeyond the lectures, you’ll leave with a clearer sense of why symbolic thinking matters in today’s world. Whether you’re in education, communication, design, or simply passionate about understanding humanity, the lessons carry over into everyday life.
The Scholarship Opportunity
One of the most exciting aspects of this offering is Genevieve’s commitment to making it accessible. Scholarships are available for participants who may not otherwise be able to join. This ensures the conversation isn’t limited to those with the means but remains as wide-reaching as the topic deserves.
If you’re interested in a scholarship, the process is straightforward: contact Genevieve directly. Depending on how you heard about the course, she’ll help guide you through the steps. This personal connection is part of what makes the class stand out—it isn’t just about enrolling; it’s about joining a dialogue led by someone deeply invested in her students’ experience.
By opening up scholarships, Genevieve is modeling the very spirit of symbolic thinking: ideas are meant to be shared, not hoarded. The origins of art belong to all of us, and this course is designed to reflect that inclusivity.
Who Should Take This Course?
The easy answer? Anyone curious about what it means to be human.
But to be more specific:
- Students of History, Anthropology, or ArchaeologyGain insights that could complement your coursework and expand your understanding beyond the textbook.
- Educators and CommunicatorsLearn new ways to frame and share humanity’s creative journey with your audiences.
- Artists and DesignersExplore the deep roots of symbolic expression and connect your modern practice to a lineage stretching back tens of thousands of years.
- Lifelong LearnersIf you’ve ever stared at a cave painting or an ancient carving and wondered why, this class is for you.
The Bigger Picture
Why does this matter now? Because the same symbolic thinking that once turned ochre into art is still shaping our world. It’s in the brands we trust, the memes we share, the rituals we practice, and the languages we speak.
Understanding the origins of these patterns isn’t just about appreciating history—it’s about recognizing the threads that continue to weave us together. By tracing art and symbols back to their beginnings, we gain perspective on how creativity has always been a survival tool, a form of communication, and a way of building community.
How to Join
- Visit the course page here: The Origins of Art and Symbolic Thinking.
- If the course excites you but cost is a barrier, reach out directly to Genevieve about scholarship options.
Final Thoughts
Every culture has its stories, symbols, and art. They are not luxuries, but necessities—ways of making sense of a complex world. By joining this course, you’ll step into a tradition as old as humanity itself: the conversation between past and present, meaning and material, imagination and reality.
Don’t miss this chance to learn from Genevieve and explore the very roots of human creativity. And remember: scholarships are available, so reach out if you need support. This story is for all of us.
World of Paleoanthropology 
Sounds amazing!
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