Humanities involves the study of subjects related to human conditions. This discipline is studied from a critical, analytical and speculative perspective. Literature, history, religion, anthropology, cultural studies, philosophy, languages, performing and visual arts, and communication studies all fall under the humanities category. The term is sometimes used in reference to philosophical humanism, but this is rejected by certain group of scholars.
The history of humanities can be traced back to Greece. During the Roman times, a concept encompassing the seven liberal arts evolved. There included grammar and logic among more scientific subjects. In the medieval times, humanities were regarded as skills.
In the 15th century there was a shift in the way humanities were perceived. Rather than a field to be practiced, it was now considered a field to be studied. In the 20th century humanities gained more prominence as an educational field rather than a set of skills.
Today humanities is a popular course among undergraduates and is offered by most universities worldwide. The coming of the digital age proved advantageous to the field of humanities. Historical texts and literature are now available in digital formats. Efficient tools have been developed that help gather, interpret and analyze these subjects. This area is known as digital humanities.
This discipline faces a lot of criticism. Corporates challenge universities that offer courses which are not applicable to the working environment. However, this course still remains a popular choice among academics and undergraduate students globally. | 
