Religious Studies

Course Offerings - Summer 2008

RELI 1000-01	Introduction to Religion – CHG Ward	Fall
MTWRF 1:20 – 3:30 pm 5/19-6/15	Religion is central in shaping culture. While cultural differences stem from religion, many similarities find their expression in religion. Learn about several world religions and the way each understands the world and influences its adherents.
RELI 2225-41	Christianity	Azar
Online	Securing its place as the defining force in Western culture, Christianity grew from a small number of Jews on the fringes to the largest and most influential religion of the Roman Empire. Explore the history and various expressions of Christianity, from the time of Jesus to the present, and discover the ancient origins of the debates that still thrive today.
RELI 3225-01	Apocalypse	Garrett
MTWRF 1:20 – 4:10 pm 7/14-8/03	The apocalyptic end time has become the subject of much speculation, especially since the beginning of the new millennium. In this course we will examine several ancient texts in order to uncover the foundation for apocalyptic thought as well as analyzing such millennial speculation as a religious phenomenon in both ancient and modern religions, including its social, cultural and personal impact.
RELI 4500-01	Topic: Medieval Religious Dissent	Utterback
MTWR 8:40-11:30 am 6/16-7/13	Christianity has never had a monolithic structure, and its current appearance has come as the result of a gradual definition of “orthodoxy” (right belief) over the centuries. In this course we will consider the development of orthodoxy through the lens of “heresy”. Dissenting views did not necessarily become heretical, but the tension between competing views eventually leads to the acceptance of some views and rejection of others, and the period between about 1000 and 1500 provided a hothouse environment for those competing elements. Cross-listed with HIST 4113/5113
RELI 4500-02	Eastern Thought (Meets non-Western certification for A&S)	Devlin
MTWR 1:20-4:10 6/16-7/13	Take a journey to the East and explore the central philosophies and religions of Asia, as we examine four particular religions – Hinduism, Theravada Buddhism, Taoism, and Mahayana Buddhism – and focus on the philosophical significance of these religions. Class discussions will stress analysis of readings and important philosophical concepts that arise from our Eastern exploration and how they apply to our lives at home in the West.
RELI 4500-41	Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad		Ward
Online 5/19-6/11	As "founders" of the religious communities of Judaism, Christianity and Islam, these remarkable leaders left a broad mark on the history and philosophy of humankind. Examine each one's biography within historical context, in sacred literature and "sacred histories," in scholarly debate and popular culture. Explore several perspectives to illuminate how the narratives about each have shaped our world.