History of religions, concentrating on religious traditions that have developed west of the Indus. Primary attention to the Semitic religions (Judaism, Christianity, Islam) and to their ancient world background with emphasis on basic conceptual and symbolic structures.
This course introduces students to the main features of the religious traditions of the western world (including Europe and the Near East). Primary emphasis will be on Jewish , Christian, and Islamic traditions, but their ancient world background will also be studied, including the religious traditions of ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Persia. A combination of historical and conceptual approaches will be used. The religions will be discussed in terms of their historical development and influences, with attention to the basic concepts that structure their patterns of thought. The format of presentation will be lectures, with discussions in sections. Usually there are two midterm exams and a final.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Class assignments and grading