Naturally, such a long span of time cannot be thoroughly covered we will highlight certain periods and certain texts. We will talk about perceptions of the natural world, technological innovations, beliefs about divinity, art, and distinctively Western institutions and characteristics. We will do most of this through our readings of primary texts. In addition, I will present to the class certain secondary materials and background information. Along the way, you will also further develop your skills in conducting research and articulating ideas and arguments, both orally and in writing.
Woman is seen as a frightening and incomprehensible other.
We will therefore be investigating in our readings the roles and characteristics assigned to women, as well as the ways in which women have managed to subvert these roles and carve out a space within the stereotypes. We will do this by reading texts by or about women, as well as texts which on first reading seem not to include them. Much can be learned also by noticing where precisely women have been ignored. The course title, and the first readings from Genesis, will give us our starting point. Clearly it suggests a subordinate place for women.