Texts from the last four centuries. Women and Gender in the Jewish Tradition. The course examines the representation of women and gender in Jewish tradition and how women from the biblical period to the pre-sent have experienced Judaism. Special attention is given to the articulation of these issues in biblical and rabbinic texts, the influence these texts have had on shaping Jewish attitudes and practices, the particular religious activities practiced by women, and developments in contemporary Judaism, including liturgical revisions and Rabbinic ordination. Explores the normative bases of the roles and status of women and examines Muslim women's experience in various parts of the Muslim world in order to appreciate the situation of and the challenges facing Muslim women.
Focal themes are the construction of gender, sexuality, seclusion, and spirituality.
Lecture and discussion. Sex and Religion. Sex and religion are two of the most powerful and passionate aspects of human existence. This seminar will focus primarily on sexuality in Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. Intensive reading and discussion.