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SEGMENT ACTIVITIES


History Theme - more>>

Religion and Faith After reviewing to the video and the text excerpts of "Gedle Lalibela," and the additional Internet resources, diagram one of the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela. Using captions, describe the relationship between the craftsmanship of the churches of King Lalibela and the Ethiopian's vision of Heaven and God. How did this help Lalibela legitimize his rule?

Imagination in History For what policies is Lalibela remembered? Would you say he was a visionary? An opportunist? How has he been remembered in Ethiopia? How do you account for this? Write his epitaph. Extension: Write a story placing Lalibela into a modern-day scenario where he must legitimize his rule and defend his kingdom from outside invaders. What story could this "modern-day" Lalibela tell? What feat could he accomplish?

Geography Theme - more>>

Human-Environment Interaction Pretend you are the surveyor whom Lalibela has placed in charge of supervising the "construction" of the churches in Ethiopia. What environmental challenges would you need to overcome? What tools would you need to accomplish your goal? What process would you have your workers follow? Using the additional resources, develop a plan listing all people, supplies, and expertise you will need.



For Further Study

Ethiopia has an unusual position in world history. Unlike many African countries, Ethiopia maintained a separate Christian tradition for so many centuries and retained its independence throughout most of history. Consider modern-day Ethiopia. How does your vision of that country compare with that portrayed in this video? How do you think you came to your notion of Ethiopia? Research the history of Ethiopia and draw some conclusions as to why you think it maintained this unusual position in world history.

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