Continued development of the four language skills through extensive use of graded materials on a wide variety of topics. An appreciation of Arabic literature and culture will be sought through the use of authentic materials. This is the second of a two-semester sequence, but one does not need to take NES 223 in order to take this course. The main goal is to introduce students to the literature of the Hebrew Bible. This is accomplished by concentrating on the historical material in Kings, the books of the Prophets, and the book of Job, that is, the material which covers the period from King Solomon through the end of the biblical era.
Emphasis is placed on literary, historical, and theological matters.
Special use is made of the numerous archaeological discoveries that have advanced our knowledge of ancient Israel. As such, the Bible is studied against the backdrop of ancient Near Eastern literature, history, religion, and mythology. This course provides a literary and historical introduction to the earliest Christian writings, most of which eventually came to be included in the New Testament. Through the lens of the gospel narratives and earliest Christian letters, especially those of Paul, the course will explore the rich diversity of the early Christian movement, from its Jewish roots in the first century Palestine through its development and spread to Asia Minor and beyond. Careful consideration will be given to the political, economic, social, cultural, and religious circumstances that gave rise to the Jesus movement, as well as those that facilitated the emergence of various manifestations of Christian beliefs and practices.