One's personal belief in the truth of the Bible can be affirmed independently of questions of historical or literal accuracy. However, the academic understanding of the Biblical text is dependent on historical and literal accuracy. Students are offered the opportunity to consider and discuss the methods, theories, and conclusions of Biblical scholarship. In this way they can gain a thorough basis both for a well-considered personal understanding of the Bible and for any further, more detailed study they might undertake. The primary text will be the Bible.
Students can use whichever translation they prefer as variations in translation are illuminating.
The sections from John Hayes' Introduction to the Bible must be read before the dates listed for their discussion. To prepare for each class you should read the given section of Hayes' Introduction and also the Bible references made there. I will assign more extensive Bible readings as the classes progress. Try and formulate any questions that arise from these readings and have them ready to ask in class. I advise you to write out your questions as this will help you to put them clearly before the class.