RELGST 0105 - RELIGIONS OF THE WEST

Minimum Credits: 3
Maximum Credits: 3
This course is a historical introduction to the religious traditions that developed in ancient Near East and the Mediterranean. Our major emphasis is on the history of the religious traditions that emerged in late antiquity which continue to as the major monotheistic religions: Judaism, Christianity and Islam. We focus on key concepts, historical developments, and contemporary issues. Throughout the course, we also examine interactions among these religious traditions and will make use of documentary film and sacred art to illustrate. In the final segment of the course we examine the issue of secularization and the rise of the category of the non-believer, or “none.” The course also serves as an introduction to the academic study of religion and provides a foundation for further coursework in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. No prior knowledge of any of the religions studied is expected or assumed.
Academic Career: Undergraduate
Course Component: Lecture
Grade Component: LG/SNC Elective Basis
Course Attributes: Asian Studies, DSAS Global Issues General Ed. Requirement, DSAS Historical Analysis General Ed. Requirement, Medieval & Renaissance Studies, Russian & East European Studies, SCI Polymathic Contexts: Global&Cross Cul GE. Req., SCI Polymathic Contexts: Soc/Behav. GE. Req., West European Studies

Click here for class schedule information.

Add to Portfolio(opens a new window)