Such research requires painstaking attention to detail in reading texts, and a sensitivity to the values of cultures very alien from your own. As you begin to design your research project, you will be able to discuss the possibilities and limitations of the project with your fellow researchers in discussion sessions. The aim is to provide you with a model of the importance of academic cooperation. As you begin to formulate arguments, you will need to be open to new ideas and be able to discuss contradictory evidence in a mature and nuanced manner. Finally, the writing stage of this seminar emphasizes the process of drafting material, citing sources in notes, and refining your writing style so that you present a well-written and coherent study.
Full attendance is required.
Lisa Bitel, Isle of the Saints. January 14 Introduction to the Course. Lecture on the rise of monasticism and ascetic terminology. January 21 Eastern Monasticism. February 4th Aline Rouselle, Porneia chs.