Concentration on the career and teachings of Jesus of Nazareth, the interpretation of his significance, and the development and diversity of the Christian movement. The History of Christianity A comparative survey of the evolution of Christianity in its diverse forms, examining the development of institutional forms, theological doctrine, ritual and the church's relation to the world, and covering such topics as martyrdom, monasticism, mysticism, the modern missionary enterprise, and the contemporary emergence of liberation movements. Textbook materials are supplemented by primary source materials, selected particularly to highlight the experience of non-dominant Christians. Varieties of Mysticism A critical and comparative study of specific mystics and mystical movements from the Hindu, Muslim, Jewish, and Christian religious traditions. A written prospectus must be formulated with the instructor.
Enrollment is limited.
A comparative study of religion, concentrating on representative mythic, mystical, prophetic, or messianic figures and movements from various religious traditions, and using psychological, sociological, and theological-philosophical approaches. The course is restricted to freshmen and sophomores. Central themes include myth and history, covenant, charismatic leadership, imperial religion, prophetic protest, and apocalyptic visions. Contemporary Religious Thought Consideration of major currents in contemporary religious thought from existentialist theology and mystical contemplation to more socially oriented reflection and religious philosophies of non-violence and revolution. Readings from Buber, Tillich, Weil, Teilhard, Merton, Niebuhr, Gandhi, Fackenheim, Berrigan, Cox, and Daly.