An investigation of the world's major religions which will give attention to their origin, history, mythology and doctrines. An examination of the various components in the study of religion including myths, rituals, mystical experiences, theologies, ethics and current issues. Examples will be taken from the sacred texts, rituals and the lives of religious personalities in traditions around the world. Introduction to the Literature and Religion of the Old Testament. A study of the foundation of the Judaeo-Christian tradition through an examination of selected writings of the Old Testament in their historical setting.
Emphasis is placed on the student's direct familiarity with the text of the Bible.
Introduction to the Literature and Religion of the New Testament. A study of the faith of the New Testament community as reflected in its literature including the Gospels, Acts and Letters of Paul. Attention is given to the development of tradition and problems of interpretation. Religion and Moral Values. An investigation of the historical development of religious values and moral concepts in the western religious traditions of Judaism, Roman Catholicism and Protestantism.