Religion
A central mission of the Religion Department is to enable students to become critically informed, independent, and creative interpreters of some of the religious movements, sacred texts, ideas, and practices that have decisively shaped human experience. In their coursework, students develop skills in the critical analysis of the sacred texts, images, beliefs, and performances of various religions, including Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and Buddhism. The department’s programs are designed to help students understand how religions develop and change and how religious texts, symbols, and rituals help constitute communities and cultures. Thus, the major in religion seeks to help students develop a coherent set of academic skills in the study of religion, while at the same time encouraging interdisciplinary work in the humanities, sciences, and social sciences.
Learning Goals
The Haverford religion major is unique in that it provides students with a comprehensive curriculum that includes carefully designed areas of concentrations, specialized coursework, supervised research, a lengthy written research product, and a departmental oral conversation with the entire department as the minimum requirements for fulfilling the major. Through coursework, senior thesis research, and the Senior Colloquium with the Swarthmore Religion Department, the department seeks to fulfill the following learning goals:
- Expose students to the central ideas, debates, scholars, methods, historiography, and approaches to the academic study of religion.
- Analyze key terms and categories in the study of religion, and utilize the diverse vocabularies deployed among a range of scholars in religion and related fields.
- Develop critical thinking, analytical writing, and sustained engagement in theory and method, together with the critical competence to engage sacred texts, images, ideas and practices.
- Cultivate the learning environment as an integrative and collaborative process.
- Expand intellectual opportunities for students to broaden and critically assess their worldviews.
- Encourage students to supplement their work in religion with elective languages (Arabic, Chinese, German, Greek, Hebrew, Hindi/Urdu, Japanese, Latin, Sanskrit, Yoruba).
- Foster interdisciplinary methods and perspectives in the study of religion, while continuing to model this through the curriculum.
- Prepare students for professional careers, for graduate studies in religion or related fields, and for leadership roles as reflective, critically-aware human beings.
Like other liberal arts majors, the religion major is meant to prepare students for a broad array of vocational possibilities. Religion majors typically find careers in law, public service (including both religious and secular organizations), medicine, business, ministry, and education. Religion majors have also pursued advanced graduate degrees in anthropology, history, political science, biology, Near Eastern studies, and religious studies.
Haverford’s Institutional Learning Goals are available on the President’s website, at http://hav.to/learninggoals.
Study Abroad
Students planning to study abroad must construct their programs in advance with the department. Students seeking religion credit for abroad courses must write a formal petition to the department upon their return and submit all relevant course materials. We advise students to petition courses that are within the designated area of concentration.
Major Requirements
The major in religion is designed to help students develop a coherent set of academic skills and expertise in the study of religion, while at the same time encouraging interdisciplinary work in the humanities, sciences, and social sciences. The major consists of 11 courses with the following requirements:
- Five courses within an area of concentration: each major is expected to fashion a coherent major program focused around work in one of three designated areas of concentration:
- Religious Traditions in Cultural Context. The study of religious traditions and the textual, historical, sociological and cultural contexts in which they develop. Critical analysis of formative texts and issues that advance our notions of religious identities, origins, and ideas.
- Religion, Literature, and Representation. The study of religion in relation to literary expressions and other forms of representation, such as performance, music, film, and the plastic arts.
- Religion, Ethics, and Society. The exploration of larger social issues such as race, gender, and identity as they relate to religion and religious traditions. Examines how moral principles, cultural values, and ethical conduct help to shape human societies.
The five courses within the area of concentration must include at least one department seminar at the 300 level. Where appropriate and relevant to the major’s program, up to two courses for the major may be drawn from outside the field of religion, subject to departmental approval.
- RELG H299 Course RELG H299 Not Found (Theoretical Perspectives in the Study of Religion).
- RELG H398A Senior Thesis Seminar Part 1 and RELG H399B Senior Seminar and Thesis, a two-semester senior seminar and thesis program.
- Three additional half-year courses drawn from outside the major’s area of concentration.
- Junior Colloquium: an informal required gathering of the junior majors once each semester. Students should complete the Religion Major Worksheet in advance in consultation with their major advisor and bring copies of the completed worksheet to the meeting.
At least six of each major’s 11 courses must be taken in the Haverford Religion Department.In some rare cases, students may petition the department for exceptions to the major requirements. Such petitions must be presented to the department for approval in advance.
Final evaluation of the major program will consist of written work, including a thesis, and an oral conversation completed in the context of the Senior Seminar (RELG H398A Senior Thesis Seminar Part 1 and RELG H399B Senior Seminar and Thesis).
Advising for the major takes place in individual meetings between majors and faculty advisors and in a departmental Junior Colloquium held once each semester. At this colloquium, junior majors will present their proposed programs of study with particular attention to their work in the area of concentration. All majors should fill out and bring the Religion Major Worksheet, which can be found on the Religion Department website, to the colloquium.
Senior Project
The senior thesis research project in the Department of Religion serves as a capstone experience for our majors. The work of RELG H398A Senior Thesis Seminar Part 1 and RELG H399B Senior Seminar and Thesis, the required courses related to the senior research project in religion, consists of five stages: the formulation of a thesis proposal; presentation of the proposal; presentation of a portion of work in progress; the writing and submission of first and final drafts; oral discussion with department faculty.
Senior Project Learning Goals
The goals of the senior thesis process are to:
- further develop research skills and obtain a mastery of academic citation practices.
- provide students with an opportunity to pursue original research questions and to sharpen scholarly interests as one masters a particular field/argument.
- enhance written and verbal analysis through participation in the yearlong senior seminar with department faculty and students, weekly meetings with individual advisors, and the final oral presentation of the thesis to the department.
- nurture group cohesion as a department, through collaborative participation with fellow majors during the course of RELG H398A Senior Thesis Seminar Part 1 and RELG H399B Senior Seminar and Thesis, concretely expressed by way of critical feedback to shared writing.
- build student confidence in the ability to see to fruition a rigorous project requiring prolonged periods of thought, writing, revising, and research.
Senior Project Assessment
You will receive a regular course grade for RELG H399B Senior Seminar and Thesis, which will appear on your transcript. This overall grade is comprised of three separate grades that evaluate:
- Your participation in the seminar process outlined above.
- Participation in the seminar means: punctual attendance at all seminar events; careful preparation, especially the reading of your colleagues’ work in progress; and regular meetings with your advisor and submission of writing, according to the schedule mutually agreed upon.
- The quality of your thesis.
- Your thesis will be read by all members of the department, who will mutually agree upon a grade for the written thesis. This grade will be factored into your final grade for the seminar.
- The effectiveness of your oral exam.
- The effectiveness of your oral discussion will be factored into the final grade for the thesis and for the seminar as a whole. All members of the department will participate in your oral discussion, but your advisor will not participate in the process of the final evaluation and grading of your work.
Requirements for Honors
The department awards honors and high honors in religion on the basis of the quality of work in the major and on the completed thesis.
Minor Requirements
The minor in religion, like the major, is designed to help students develop a coherent set of academic skills and expertise in the study of religion, while at the same time encouraging interdisciplinary work in the humanities, sciences, and social sciences. The minor consists of six courses with the following requirements:
- Five courses within an area of concentration, with at least one at the 300 level:
- Religious Traditions in Cultural Context. The study of religious traditions and the textual, historical, sociological and cultural contexts in which they develop. Critical analysis of formative texts and issues that advance our notions of religious identities, origins, and ideas.
- Religion, Literature, and Representation. The study of religion in relation to literary expressions and other forms of representation, such as performance, music, film, and the plastic arts.
- Religion, Ethics, and Society. The exploration of larger social issues such as race, gender, and identity as they relate to religion and religious traditions. Examines how moral principles, cultural values, and ethical conduct help to shape human societies.
- RELG H299 Course RELG H299 Not Found (Theoretical Perspectives in the Study of Religion).
- Junior Colloquium: an informal required gathering of the junior majors once each semester. Students should complete the Religion Minor Worksheet, available on the Religion Department website, in advance in consultation with their major advisor and bring copies of the completed worksheet to the meeting.
All six courses must be taken in the Haverford Religion Department. In some rare cases, students may petition the department for exceptions to the minor requirements. Such petitions must be presented to the department for approval in advance.
RELG H101A Introduction to the Study of Religion (1 Unit)
An introduction to the study of religion from multiple perspectives: overviews of several religions with classroom discussion of primary sources; cross-cultural features common to many religions; theories of religion and approaches to its study and interpretation. Enrollment Limit: 35
RELG H101B Introduction to the Study of Religion (1 Unit)
An introduction to the study of religion from multiple perspectives: overviews of several religions with classroom discussion of primary sources; cross-cultural features common to many religions; theories of religion and approaches to its study and interpretation. Enrollment Limit: 35
RELG H103 Religion in Philadelphia (1 Unit)
A survey of the historical, sociological, and theological diversity of religions in Philadelphia. Enrollment Limit: 35
RELG H103A Religion in Philadelphia (1 Unit)
A survey of the historical, sociological, and theological diversity of religions in Philadelphia. Enrollment Limit: 35
RELG H104A Religion and Social Ethics (1 Unit)
Introduces students to debates in social ethics, with a focus on Jewish, Protestant, and Catholic perspectives on the theological and ethical significance of race, class, and gender in contemporary society. Topics will include racism, incarceration, poverty, gender-based domination, and same-sex marriage. Enrollment Limit: 35 Lottery Preference(s): 15 spaces reserved for incoming first-year students
RELG H104B Religion and Social Ethics (1 Unit)
This course introduces students to Jewish, Christian, and Muslim approaches to contemporary social ethics. Topics may include labor, poverty and economic justice, racism, immigration, incarceration and capital punishment, civil disobedience, gender roles, sexuality, and sexual ethics. Lottery Preference: 15 spaces reserved for incoming first-year students Enrollment Limit: 35.00
RELG H105 Food & Religion (1 Unit)
An exploration of the role of food in religious beliefs and practices. Topics include the role of food in religious rituals, the connection between religious foodways and religious identities, and the ethics of food production and consumption. Enrollment Limit: 35 Lottery Preference(s): First Years (if offered in Fall, 10 spaces reserved for incoming first years)
RELG H105A Food & Religion (1 Unit)
An exploration of the role of food in religious beliefs and practices. Topics include the role of food in religious rituals, the connection between religious foodways and religious identities, and the ethics of food production and consumption. Enrollment Limit: 35 Lottery Preference(s): First Years (if offered in Fall, 10 spaces reserved for incoming first years)
RELG H105B Food & Religion (1 Unit)
An exploration of the role of food in religious beliefs and practices. Topics include the role of food in religious rituals, the connection between religious foodways and religious identities, and the ethics of food production and consumption. Enrollment Limit: 35 Lottery Preference(s): First Years (if offered in Fall, 10 spaces reserved for incoming first years)
RELG H106 Introduction to Islam (1 Unit)
This course is a general survey of the religion of Islam, encompassing history, beliefs, sacred texts (Qur'an and ?adith) and their interpretation, religious law, Sufism, philosophy, art, and science. Particular attention is given to Muslim practice and to Islam as a total way of life. Salient topics include modernity and modernism; statism, nationalism and imperialism; as well as gender, sexuality, marriage, and the family. Enrollment Limit: 35, 15 spaces reserved for First Years Lottery Preference(s): First Year students, majors, then minors
RELG H106A Introduction to Islam (1 Unit)
This course is a general survey of the religion of Islam, encompassing history, beliefs, sacred texts (Qur'an and ?adith) and their interpretation, religious law, Sufism, philosophy, art, and science. Particular attention is given to Muslim practice and to Islam as a total way of life. Salient topics include modernity and modernism; statism, nationalism and imperialism; as well as gender, sexuality, marriage, and the family. Enrollment Limit: 35, 15 spaces reserved for First Years Lottery Preference(s): First Year students, majors, then minors
RELG H106B Introduction to Islam (1 Unit)
This course is a general survey of the religion of Islam, encompassing history, beliefs, sacred texts (Qur'an and ?adith) and their interpretation, religious law, Sufism, philosophy, art, and science. Particular attention is given to Muslim practice and to Islam as a total way of life. Salient topics include modernity and modernism; statism, nationalism and imperialism; as well as gender, sexuality, marriage, and the family. Enrollment Limit: 35, 15 spaces reserved for First Years Lottery Preference(s): First Year students, majors, then minors
RELG H107 Vocabularies of Islam (1 Unit)
Provides students with an introduction to the foundational concepts of Islam, its religious institutions, and the diverse ways in which Muslims understand and practice their religion. We explore the vocabularies surrounding core issues of scripture, prophethood, law, ritual, theology, mysticism, literature, and art from the early period to the present. Enrollment Limit: 35
RELG H107A Vocabularies of Islam (1 Unit)
Provides students with an introduction to the foundational concepts of Islam, its religious institutions, and the diverse ways in which Muslims understand and practice their religion. We explore the vocabularies surrounding core issues of scripture, prophethood, law, ritual, theology, mysticism, literature, and art from the early period to the present. Enrollment Limit: 35
RELG H110A Sacred Texts and Religious Traditions (1 Unit)
An introduction to Religion through the close reading of selected sacred texts of various religious traditions in their historical, literary, philosophical, and religious contexts. Enrollment Limit: 20 Lottery Preference(s): 10 spaces reserved for first-year students
RELG H110B Sacred Texts and Religious Traditions (1 Unit)
An introduction to Religion through the close reading of selected sacred texts of various religious traditions in their historical, literary, philosophical, and religious contexts. Enrollment Limit: 30 Lottery preference(s): 12 spaces reserved for first-year students
RELG H111 Hindu Temple Architecture and Culture (1 Unit)
An introduction to the diverse and fluid tradition known as Hinduism, which we will examine through the many streams that feed into it: theological and philosophical beliefs, ritual and devotional practices, literature, visual art, music and drama. Enrollment Limit: 35
RELG H111A Hindu Temple Architecture and Culture (1 Unit)
An introduction to the diverse and fluid tradition known as Hinduism, which we will examine through the many streams that feed into it: theological and philosophical beliefs, ritual and devotional practices, literature, visual art, music and drama. Enrollment Limit: 35
RELG H111B Hindu Temple Architecture and Culture (1 Unit)
An introduction to the diverse and fluid tradition known as Hinduism, which we will examine through the many streams that feed into it: theological and philosophical beliefs, ritual and devotional practices, literature, visual art, music and drama. Enrollment Limit: 35
RELG H112 Myth, Folklore, and Legend in Japan (1 Unit)
An introduction to stories of the weird and supernatural in Japan and a reflection on genre and the scholarly enterprise of taxonomy-making. Readings from Buddhist miracle plays, early modern puppet drama, etc., supplemented by scholarly secondary sources. Enrollment Limit: 25 Lottery Preference(s): EALC majors and minors, then freshmen and sophomores
RELG H112B Myth, Folklore, and Legend in Japan (1 Unit)
An introduction to stories of the weird and supernatural in Japan and a reflection on genre and the scholarly enterprise of taxonomy-making. Readings from Buddhist miracle plays, early modern puppet drama, etc., supplemented by scholarly secondary sources. Enrollment Limit: 25 Lottery Preference(s): EALC majors and minors, then freshmen and sophomores
RELG H113 Animals and Religion (1 Unit)
The course explores central themes in the study of religion – such as myth and ritual – through a focus on animals. To do so we will engage a selection of primary sources and scholarly articles that examine the place of animals in the major world religions: Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, Hinduism, Chinese traditions, as well as American indigenous traditions.
RELG H113B Animals and Religion (1 Unit)
The course explores central themes in the study of religion – such as myth and ritual – through a focus on animals. To do so we will engage a selection of primary sources and scholarly articles that examine the place of animals in the major world religions: Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, Hinduism, Chinese traditions, as well as American indigenous traditions.
RELG H114 The History of Daoism in China: Religions, Magic, Medicine (1 Unit)
General introduction to the history and development of Daoism in China, including: philosophical beginnings, religious transformations, and the relationship to magic and medicine.
RELG H114B The History of Daoism in China: Religions, Magic, Medicine (1 Unit)
General introduction to the history and development of Daoism in China, including: philosophical beginnings, religious transformations, and the relationship to magic and medicine.
RELG H116A Ethical Struggles in Catastrophic Times: Quakers’ Responses to the Holocaust (1 Unit)
In the 1930s and 1940s, Quakers engaged in a number of remarkable—and controversial—activities that were intended to provide assistance to people who were being persecuted by the Nazis. Those actions were criticized by some US citizens (who thought that Quakers were giving unwitting aid to the Nazis) and also derided by Nazis such as Joseph Goebbels (who thought that Quakers were demonstrating a complete lack of awareness about how the world really works.) Nevertheless, Quakers’ actions did end up saving some lives. Students in this course will examine what Quakers accomplished—and failed to accomplish—in the 1930s and 1940s. The course is not designed as a venue in which to decide, once and for all, which of the Quakers’ actions were wise and which were foolish. The course is meant, rather, to offer students an opportunity to reflect on the ethical questions with which Quakers wrestled and an invitation to compare those questions with the ones they face themselves. Crosslisted: Independent College Programs; Religion; Peace, Justice and Human Rights Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H116B Ethical Struggles in Catastrophic Times: Quakers’ Responses to the Holocaust (1 Unit)
In the 1930s and 1940s, Quakers engaged in a number of remarkable—and controversial—activities that were intended to provide assistance to people who were being persecuted by the Nazis. Those actions were criticized by some US citizens (who thought that Quakers were giving unwitting aid to the Nazis) and also derided by Nazis such as Joseph Goebbels (who thought that Quakers were demonstrating a complete lack of awareness about how the world really works.) Nevertheless, Quakers’ actions did end up saving some lives. Students in this course will examine what Quakers accomplished—and failed to accomplish—in the 1930s and 1940s. The course is not designed as a venue in which to decide, once and for all, which of the Quakers’ actions were wise and which were foolish. The course is meant, rather, to offer students an opportunity to reflect on the ethical questions with which Quakers wrestled and an invitation to compare those questions with the ones they face themselves. Crosslisted: Independent College Programs; Religion; Peace, Justice and Human Rights Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H117 Religion, the Body, and the Senses (1 Unit)
This course explores the multi sensuous nature of religious experience and expression. Religion is not just a practice or a set of texts; it is also an embodied, felt experience that activates sights, sounds, tastes, touch, and particular smells. These embodied senses are also gendered and raced, and we want to pay close attention to how religious traditions map particular bodies onto specific senses. Pre-requisite(s): None Enrollment Limit: 35
RELG H117A Religion, the Body, and the Senses (1 Unit)
This course explores the multi sensuous nature of religious experience and expression. Religion is not just a practice or a set of texts; it is also an embodied, felt experience that activates sights, sounds, tastes, touch, and particular smells. These embodied senses are also gendered and raced, and we want to pay close attention to how religious traditions map particular bodies onto specific senses. Pre-requisite(s): None Enrollment Limit: 35
RELG H117B Religion, the Body, and the Senses (1 Unit)
This course explores the multi sensuous nature of religious experience and expression. Religion is not just a practice or a set of texts; it is also an embodied, felt experience that activates sights, sounds, tastes, touch, and particular smells. These embodied senses are also gendered and raced, and we want to pay close attention to how religious traditions map particular bodies onto specific senses. Pre-requisite(s): None Enrollment Limit: 35
RELG H118A Hebrew Bible: Literary Text and Historical Context (1 Unit)
The Hebrew Bible, which is fundamental to both Judaism and Christianity, poses several challenges to modern readers. Who wrote it, when, and why? What was its significance then and now? How does one study the Bible from an academic point of view? Using literary, historical, theological, and archaeological interpretive tools, this course will address these questions and introduce students to academic biblical studies.
RELG H118B Hebrew Bible and its Interpreters (1 Unit)
The Hebrew Bible, or “Old Testament,” is, arguably, the most influential text in the West. Religions, governments, movements, artists, thinkers, and common people have all drawn inspiration, wisdom, and foolishness from its texts. In this course we will sample a variety of ways in which readers have wrestled with, been influenced by, appreciated, depreciated, analyzed, criticized, and popularized the Bible. We will turn to a variety of sources—philosophical, academic, cultural, theological, and popular—for insights, examples, and samples. We will also pay special attention to interpretations of the Bible on themes such as race and nation, gender and law, war and peace.
RELG H119 Bible, Race and Sexuality (1 Unit)
This course focuses on the interpretive history and historical contexts of a selection of biblical passages which form the core of "biblical" understandings of race, gender and sexuality. In comparative and historical textual exploration students will learn the variety of ways these texts have been understood across time and community, as well as how these same texts continue to provoke new interpretations and new understandings of race, gender and sexuality. Lottery Preference: Ten spaces reserved for first years. Enrollment Limit: 25.00
RELG H119A Bible, Race and Sexuality (1 Unit)
This course focuses on the interpretive history and historical contexts of a selection of biblical passages which form the core of "biblical" understandings of race, gender and sexuality. In comparative and historical textual exploration students will learn the variety of ways these texts have been understood across time and community, as well as how these same texts continue to provoke new interpretations and new understandings of race, gender and sexuality. Lottery Preference: Ten spaces reserved for first years. Enrollment Limit: 25.00
RELG H119B Bible, Race and Sexuality (1 Unit)
This course focuses on the interpretive history and historical contexts of a selection of biblical passages which form the core of "biblical" understandings of race, gender and sexuality. In comparative and historical textual exploration students will learn the variety of ways these texts have been understood across time and community, as well as how these same texts continue to provoke new interpretations and new understandings of race, gender and sexuality. Lottery Preference: Ten spaces reserved for first years. Enrollment Limit: 25.00
RELG H120 Introduction to Judaism (1 Unit)
This course introduces the student to the history, texts, rituals and lived experiences of Judaism as it was practiced, recorded and documented across history and geography as well as the many forms and expressions Judaism encompasses today.
RELG H120A Introduction to Judaism (1 Unit)
This course introduces the student to the history, texts, rituals and lived experiences of Judaism as it was practiced, recorded and documented across history and geography as well as the many forms and expressions Judaism encompasses today.
RELG H120B Introduction to Judaism (1 Unit)
This course introduces the student to the history, texts, rituals and lived experiences of Judaism as it was practiced, recorded and documented across history and geography as well as the many forms and expressions Judaism encompasses today.
RELG H121A Varieties of Judaism in the Ancient World (1 Unit)
From Abraham to Rabbi Judah the Prince, Judaism has been transformed from a local ethnic religious cult to a broad-based, diverse religion. Many outside cultures and civilizations, from the ancient Persians to the Imperial Romans, influenced the Jews and Judaism through language, culture and political contacts. Absorbing and adapting these various and often opposing influences, the Israelite, and then Jewish, community re-invented itself, often fragmenting into several versions at once. After the destruction of the temple in 70 C.E., one group, the rabbis, gradually came to dominate Jewish life. Why? This course studies the changes and developments that brought about these radical transformations.
RELG H121B Varieties of Judaism in the Ancient World (1 Unit)
From Abraham to Rabbi Judah the Prince, Judaism has been transformed from a local ethnic religious cult to a broad-based, diverse religion. Many outside cultures and civilizations, from the ancient Persians to the Imperial Romans, influenced the Jews and Judaism through language, culture and political contacts. Absorbing and adapting these various and often opposing influences, the Israelite, and then Jewish, community re-invented itself, often fragmenting into several versions at once. After the destruction of the temple in 70 C.E., one group, the rabbis, gradually came to dominate Jewish life. Why? This course studies the changes and developments that brought about these radical transformations.
RELG H122 Introduction to the New Testament (1 Unit)
An introduction to the New Testament and early Christian literature. Special attention will be given to the Jewish origins of the Jesus movement, the development of traditions about Jesus in the earliest Christian communities, and the social contexts and functions of various texts. Readings will include non-canonical writings, in addition to the writings of the New Testament canon. Enrollment Limit: 35
RELG H122B Introduction to the New Testament (1 Unit)
An introduction to the New Testament and early Christian literature. Special attention will be given to the Jewish origins of the Jesus movement, the development of traditions about Jesus in the earliest Christian communities, and the social contexts and functions of various texts. Readings will include non-canonical writings, in addition to the writings of the New Testament canon. Enrollment Limit: 35
RELG H124A Introduction to Christian Thought (1 Unit)
An examination of some central concepts of the Christian faith, approached within the context of contemporary theological discussion. Basic Christian ideas will be considered in relation to one another and with attention to their classic formulations, major historical transformations, and recent reformulations under the pressures of modernity and postmodernity. Enrollment Limit: 35
RELG H124B Introduction to Christian Thought (1 Unit)
An introduction to Western Christian thought that centers on the problem of evil. Assignments will range from prehistory to present times and will include The Book of Job, modern philosophical speculation, historical writing, and fiction. Enrollment Limit: 35
RELG H128A Reading Sacred Texts (1 Unit)
An introduction to reading sacred texts in an academic setting. In this course we will apply a variety of methodological approaches--literary, historical, sociological, anthropological or philosophical--to the reading of religious texts, documents and materials. Open only to first-year students as assigned by the Director of College Writing. Enrollment Limit 12
RELG H128B Reading Sacred Text: Religion, Race and Sexuality (1 Unit)
An academic introduction to reading race, sexuality and religion in/and out of sacred texts [primarily the Bible and Quran]. This course will explore how various sacred texts come to support a variety of views (often contradictory) on race, sexuality and religion. Enrollment Limit: 35
RELG H130A Material Religion in America (1 Unit)
The ways in which Americans express, explore, and negotiate their religious identities in and through material objects, rituals, and performances. We will explore theoretical literature to help us think well about material practices, and interrogate various texts in literature, anthropology, sociology, history, and religion to better appreciate the diversity of material practices and the models to study them. Enrollment Limit: 35
RELG H130B Material Religion in America (1 Unit)
The ways in which Americans express, explore, and negotiate their religious identities in and through material objects, rituals, and performances. We will explore theoretical literature to help us think well about material practices, and interrogate various texts in literature, anthropology, sociology, history, and religion to better appreciate the diversity of material practices and the models to study them. Enrollment Limit: 35
RELG H131 The Lure of Images: Religion and Visual Media (1 Unit)
This course examines representations from figural forms to abstractions, found objects and beautiful writing to understand the power of sacred imagery. We will examine formats from medieval manuscripts and painted walls to films, panoramas and comic books to observe the dynamics that emerge among viewers and images in spatial contexts ranging from altar pieces, sculpture, stained glass and painting in neo-Gothic churches, calligraphy in mosque and shrine interiors, deity icons in Hindu temples and potent fabrics in Buddhist monastic complexes. Crosslisted: VIST. Enrollment Limit: 35.00
RELG H131A The Lure of Images: Religion and Visual Media (1 Unit)
This course examines representations from figural forms to abstractions, found objects and beautiful writing to understand the power of sacred imagery. We will examine formats from medieval manuscripts and painted walls to films, panoramas and comic books to observe the dynamics that emerge among viewers and images in spatial contexts ranging from altar pieces, sculpture, stained glass and painting in neo-Gothic churches, calligraphy in mosque and shrine interiors, deity icons in Hindu temples and potent fabrics in Buddhist monastic complexes. Crosslisted: VIST. Enrollment Limit: 35.00
RELG H132A Varieties of African American Religious Experience (1 Unit)
An introduction to the study of African American religious expression and engagement in the United States, engaging multiple theoretical discourses surrounding the study and practice of African Diaspora Religions. Enrollment Limit: 35
RELG H132B Varieties of African American Religious Experience (1 Unit)
An introduction to the study of African American religious expression and engagement in the United States, engaging multiple theoretical discourses surrounding the study and practice of African Diaspora Religions.
RELG H134 American Spiritualities (1 Unit)
"Spirituality" has become a common-place descriptor in contemporary American culture. As a practice that cuts across racial, ethnic, class and gender lines, how are we to understand this particular form of religiosity? This course will explore mainstream as well as alternative spiritual practices and ideas, from the Lakota Sundance to Spiritualist seances, Quaker Meeting for Worship to Tik Tok witches. Students in this course will interrogate how the categorization of "spirituality" operates in the modern United States. Enrollment Limit: 35
RELG H134B American Spiritualities (1 Unit)
"Spirituality" has become a common-place descriptor in contemporary American culture. As a practice that cuts across racial, ethnic, class and gender lines, how are we to understand this particular form of religiosity? This course will explore mainstream as well as alternative spiritual practices and ideas, from the Lakota Sundance to Spiritualist seances, Quaker Meeting for Worship to Tik Tok witches. Students in this course will interrogate how the categorization of "spirituality" operates in the modern United States. Enrollment Limit: 35
RELG H137 Black Religion and Liberation Theology (1 Unit)
An introduction to the theological & philosophical claims raised in Black Religion & Liberation Thought in 20th C America. In particular, the course will examine the multiple meanings of liberation within black religion, the place of religion in African American struggles against racism, sexism and class exploitation and the role of religion in shaping the moral and political imaginations of African Americans.
RELG H137A Black Religion and Liberation Theology (1 Unit)
An introduction to the theological & philosophical claims raised in Black Religion & Liberation Thought in 20th C America. In particular, the course will examine the multiple meanings of liberation within black religion, the place of religion in African American struggles against racism, sexism and class exploitation and the role of religion in shaping the moral and political imaginations of African Americans.
RELG H140 Introduction to Islamic Philosophy and Theology (1 Unit)
This course is a survey of major thinkers and debates in Islamic intellectual history. We will discuss how these thinkers addressed theological concerns such as God's attributes in light of divine unity; freewill versus predestination; and mysticism and philosophy as legitimate means of divine worship.
RELG H140A Introduction to Islamic Philosophy and Theology (1 Unit)
This course is a survey of major thinkers and debates in Islamic intellectual history. We will discuss how these thinkers addressed theological concerns such as God's attributes in light of divine unity; freewill versus predestination; and mysticism and philosophy as legitimate means of divine worship.
RELG H144 Reading Comics and Religion (1 Unit)
The exploration of how notions of the religious arise in comics and graphic novels that visually depict narratives of and about the sacred. Reading comics is a visual practice, but it is also a study in religious expression, creative imagination, and critical interpretation. The course will engage the multi-textured layers of religious traditions through a reading of comics, and thereby integrate comics within the study of religion even as the very reading of comics challenges our notions of what counts as religion. Enrollment Limit: 30 (15 Haverford/Bryn Mawr students and 15 Swarthmore students; Haverford student enrollment may exceed 15 based on pre-registration results)
RELG H144B Reading Comics and Religion (1 Unit)
The exploration of how notions of the religious arise in comics and graphic novels that visually depict narratives of and about the sacred. Reading comics is a visual practice, but it is also a study in religious expression, creative imagination, and critical interpretation. The course will engage the multi-textured layers of religious traditions through a reading of comics, and thereby integrate comics within the study of religion even as the very reading of comics challenges our notions of what counts as religion. Enrollment Limit: 30 (15 Haverford/Bryn Mawr students and 15 Swarthmore students; Haverford student enrollment may exceed 15 based on pre-registration results)
RELG H150 South Asian Religious Cultures (1 Unit)
An introductory course covering the variegated expressions of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Islam, and Sikhism in South Asia. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H150A South Asian Religious Cultures (1 Unit)
An introductory course covering the variegated expressions of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Islam, and Sikhism in South Asia. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H150B South Asian Religious Cultures (1 Unit)
An introductory course covering the variegated expressions of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Islam, and Sikhism in South Asia. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H155 Themes in the Anthropology of Religion: Ritual (1 Unit)
What is it that rituals actually do? Are they enactments (affirmations) of collective ideals or are they arguments about these? Are they media for political action or are they expressions of teleological phenomena? The course is a comparative study of ritual and its place in religious practice and political argumentation. Concrete case studies will include an initiation ritual in South Africa, the Communion Sacrament in Christianity, a Holocaust commemorative site in Auschwitz, and the cult of spirit-possession in Niger. Cross-listed: Anthropology, Religion Enrollment Limit: 25 Lottery Preference: First-years and sophomores
RELG H155B Themes in the Anthropology of Religion: Ritual (1 Unit)
What is it that rituals actually do? Are they enactments (affirmations) of collective ideals or are they arguments about these? Are they media for political action or are they expressions of teleological phenomena? The course is a comparative study of ritual and its place in religious practice and political argumentation. Concrete case studies will include an initiation ritual in South Africa, the Communion Sacrament in Christianity, a Holocaust commemorative site in Auschwitz, and the cult of spirit-possession in Niger. Cross-listed: Anthropology, Religion Enrollment Limit: 25 Lottery Preference: First-years and sophomores
RELG H160 From Malcolm X to Dave Chappelle: Islam, Humor, and Comedy in America (1 Unit)
This course excavates a remarkable genealogy of African American Muslim humor that both shatters the stereotypical image of the ‘cheerful black man’ and exposes the admirable struggles of contemporary African American comedians. We will read philosophical works on humor and comedy, the history of Islam and slavery in the US and the Americas, and a range of works addressing laughter and foolery. The class includes three workshops that require close hands-on engagement. Lottery Preference: Religion; Africana Studies; Anthropology Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H160B From Malcolm X to Dave Chappelle: Islam, Humor, and Comedy in America (1 Unit)
This course excavates a remarkable genealogy of African American Muslim humor that both shatters the stereotypical image of the ‘cheerful black man’ and exposes the admirable struggles of contemporary African American comedians. We will read philosophical works on humor and comedy, the history of Islam and slavery in the US and the Americas, and a range of works addressing laughter and foolery. The class includes three workshops that require close hands-on engagement. Lottery Preference: Religion; Africana Studies; Anthropology Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H186 Reinventing Quakerism: Haverford College, Rufus Jones, and the Invention of Liberal Quakerism (1 Unit)
Quakerism isn’t stable. It varies from place to place and from generation to generation. There is a real sense in which Orthodox Quakerism (the form of Quakerism that is most closely connected to Haverford College) was reinvented in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Students in this course will examine some of the changes that Orthodox Quakerism underwent between the 1860s and the 1940s by analyzing the life and thought of Rufus Jones (1863-1948). Jones is the most famous Quaker ever to teach at Haverford and one of most influential scholars ever produced by the Religious Society of Friends. Open only to first-year students as assigned by the Director of College Writing. Enrollment Limit: 12
RELG H186B Reinventing Quakerism: Haverford College, Rufus Jones, and the Invention of Liberal Quakerism (1 Unit)
Quakerism isn’t stable. It varies from place to place and from generation to generation. There is a real sense in which Orthodox Quakerism (the form of Quakerism that is most closely connected to Haverford College) was reinvented in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Students in this course will examine some of the changes that Orthodox Quakerism underwent between the 1860s and the 1940s by analyzing the life and thought of Rufus Jones (1863-1948). Jones is the most famous Quaker ever to teach at Haverford and one of most influential scholars ever produced by the Religious Society of Friends. Open only to first-year students as assigned by the Director of College Writing. Enrollment Limit: 12
RELG H201A Introduction to Buddhism (1 Unit)
Focusing on the East Asian Buddhist tradition, the course examines Buddhist philosophy, doctrine and practice as textual traditions and as lived religion. Crosslisted: East Asian Languages & Cultures, Religion Enrollment Limit: 30
RELG H201B Introduction to Buddhism (1 Unit)
Focusing on the East Asian Buddhist tradition, the course examines Buddhist philosophy, doctrine and practice as textual traditions and as lived religion. Crosslisted: East Asian Languages & Cultures, Religion Enrollment Limit: 30
RELG H202A The End of the World as We Know it (1 Unit)
Why are people always predicting the coming endtime? This course will explore the genre of apocalypse, looking for common themes that characterize this form of literature. Our primary source readings will be drawn from the Bible and non-canonical documents from the early Jewish and Christian traditions. We will use an analytical perspective to explore the social functions of apocalyptic, and ask why this form has been so persistent and influential. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H202B The End of the World as We Know it (1 Unit)
Why are people always predicting the coming endtime? This course will explore the genre of apocalypse, looking for common themes that characterize this form of literature. Our primary source readings will be drawn from the Bible and non-canonical documents from the early Jewish and Christian traditions. We will use an analytical perspective to explore the social functions of apocalyptic, and ask why this form has been so persistent and influential. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H203 The Hebrew Bible and its Interpretations (1 Unit)
This course will critically study select Hebrew Biblical passages (in translation) as well as Jewish and Christian Biblical commentaries in order to better understand how Hebrew Biblical texts have been read, interpreted and explained by ancient and modern readers alike. Students will also learn to read the texts critically and begin to form their own understandings of them. We will also study how ancient biblical narratives can be reworked in modern film.
RELG H203A The Hebrew Bible and its Interpretations (1 Unit)
This course will critically study select Hebrew Biblical passages (in translation) as well as Jewish and Christian Biblical commentaries in order to better understand how Hebrew Biblical texts have been read, interpreted and explained by ancient and modern readers alike. Students will also learn to read the texts critically and begin to form their own understandings of them. We will also study how ancient biblical narratives can be reworked in modern film.
RELG H206 History and Literature of Early Christianity (1 Unit)
A study of the history and literature of early Christianity, from the second through fourth centuries. Enrollment Limit: 20
RELG H206A History and Literature of Early Christianity (1 Unit)
A study of the history and literature of early Christianity, from the second through fourth centuries. Enrollment Limit: 20
RELG H208 Sacred Matters: Material Dimensions of Religious Experience in South Asia (1 Unit)
An examination of the bodily, sensorial and emotional experience of things, substances, architecture, sculpture, landscape, textiles, and texts, the aesthetics of epic poetry, drama, song, dance in South Asian religious cultures. Topics may include how such practices inscribe religious experience, provide parameters for social organization, and offer religious critique. Prerequisite(s): One course in Religion or Visual Studies Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H208A Sacred Matters: Material Dimensions of Religious Experience in South Asia (1 Unit)
An examination of the bodily, sensorial and emotional experience of things, substances, architecture, sculpture, landscape, textiles, and texts, the aesthetics of epic poetry, drama, song, dance in South Asian religious cultures. Topics may include how such practices inscribe religious experience, provide parameters for social organization, and offer religious critique. Prerequisite(s): One course in Religion or Visual Studies Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H208B Sacred Matters: Material Dimensions of Religious Experience in South Asia (1 Unit)
An examination of the bodily, sensorial and emotional experience of things, substances, architecture, sculpture, landscape, textiles, and texts, the aesthetics of epic poetry, drama, song, dance in South Asian religious cultures. Topics may include how such practices inscribe religious experience, provide parameters for social organization, and offer religious critique. Prerequisite(s): One course in Religion or Visual Studies Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H209A Classical Mythology (1 Unit)
An introduction to the primary characters and stories of Greek and Roman mythology including cosmic creation, Olympian and other deities, and heroes both as they appear in Greek and Roman literature and art and as they are later represented in modern art, music, and film. Crosslisted: Classical Studies, Comparative Literature, Religion
RELG H209B Classical Mythology (1 Unit)
An introduction to the primary characters and stories of Greek and Roman mythology including cosmic creation, Olympian and other deities, and heroes both as they appear in Greek and Roman literature and art and as they are later represented in modern art, music, and film. Crosslisted: Classical Studies, Comparative Literature, Religion
RELG H210 Religion, Sex, and Power (1 Unit)
RELG H210A Religion, Sex, and Power (1 Unit)
RELG H212 Jerusalem: City, History and Representation (1 Unit)
An examination of the history of Jerusalem as well as a study of Jerusalem as religious symbol and how the two interact over the centuries. Readings from ancient, medieval, modern and contemporary sources as well as material culture and art. Enrollment Limit: 25 Lottery Preference(s): Religion majors, minors, then MEIS concentrators
RELG H212B Jerusalem: City, History and Representation (1 Unit)
An examination of the history of Jerusalem as well as a study of Jerusalem as religious symbol and how the two interact over the centuries. Readings from ancient, medieval, modern and contemporary sources as well as material culture and art. Enrollment Limit: 25 Lottery Preference(s): Religion majors, minors, then MEIS concentrators
RELG H214 Prophetic Imaginations in the American Tradition (1 Unit)
An examination of prophecy as a form of social criticism in colonial and contemporary America . The course identifies the prophetic tradition as an extension of the American Jeremiad. Particular attention is given to Reinhold Niebuhr and Martin Luther King Jr.
RELG H214A Prophetic Imaginations in the American Tradition (1 Unit)
An examination of prophecy as a form of social criticism in colonial and contemporary America . The course identifies the prophetic tradition as an extension of the American Jeremiad. Particular attention is given to Reinhold Niebuhr and Martin Luther King Jr.
RELG H215A The Letters of Paul (1 Unit)
Close reading of the 13 letters attributed to the apostle Paul and critical examination of the place of Paul in the development of early Christianity. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H215B The Letters of Paul (1 Unit)
Close reading of the 13 letters attributed to the apostle Paul and critical examination of the place of Paul in the development of early Christianity. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H216 Images of Jesus (1 Unit)
Critical examination of the varied representations of Jesus from the beginnings of Christianity through contemporary culture. The course will focus primarily on literary sources (canonical and non-canonical gospels; prayers; stories; poems; novels), but artistic, theological, academic and cinematic images of Jesus will also be considered. Enrollment Limit: 20
RELG H216B Images of Jesus (1 Unit)
Critical examination of the varied representations of Jesus from the beginnings of Christianity through contemporary culture. The course will focus primarily on literary sources (canonical and non-canonical gospels; prayers; stories; poems; novels), but artistic, theological, academic and cinematic images of Jesus will also be considered. Enrollment Limit: 20
RELG H218 The Divine Guide: an Introduction to Shiism (1 Unit)
An exploration of the religious, social, and political dimensions of Shi'i Islam, from its early formation until the modern period. Topics include: authority and guidance; theology and jurisprudence; messianism and eschatology; scriptural exegesis; ritual and performance; gender; intersections between religion and politics.
RELG H218B The Divine Guide: an Introduction to Shiism (1 Unit)
An exploration of the religious, social, and political dimensions of Shi'i Islam, from its early formation until the modern period. Topics include: authority and guidance; theology and jurisprudence; messianism and eschatology; scriptural exegesis; ritual and performance; gender; intersections between religion and politics.
RELG H221A Women and Gender in Early Christianity (1 Unit)
An examination of the representations of women and gender in early Christian texts and their significance for contemporary Christianity. Topics include interpretations of Genesis 1-3, images of women and sexuality in early Christian literature, and the roles of women in various Christian communities. Enrollment Limit: 20
RELG H221B Women and Gender in Early Christianity (1 Unit)
An examination of the representations of women and gender in early Christian texts and their significance for contemporary Christianity. Topics include interpretations of Genesis 1-3, images of women and sexuality in early Christian literature, and the roles of women in various Christian communities. Enrollment Limit: 20
RELG H222A Gnosticism (1 Unit)
The phenomenon of Gnosticism examined through close reading of primary sources, including the recently discovered texts of Nag Hammadi. Topics include the relation of Gnosticism to Greek, Jewish, and Christian thought; the variety of Gnostic schools and sects; gender imagery, mythology and other issues in the interpretation of Gnostic texts. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H222B Gnosticism (1 Unit)
The phenomenon of Gnosticism examined through close reading of primary sources, including the recently discovered texts of Nag Hammadi. Topics include the relation of Gnosticism to Greek, Jewish, and Christian thought; the variety of Gnostic schools and sects; gender imagery, mythology and other issues in the interpretation of Gnostic texts. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H223 Body, Sexuality and Christianity (1 Unit)
Christianity’s deeply-ingrained discomfort with the human body and sexuality has had a disproportionate impact on women, making rules about proper behavior that confined women’s roles in church and society. At the same time, Christianity has always inspired a powerful feminism, prompting women to break all the rules. This course will explore Western Christianity during the medieval period, when the tension between misogyny and feminism was particularly powerful and when many of the tensions still felt in Western society were formed. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H223A Body, Sexuality and Christianity (1 Unit)
Christianity’s deeply-ingrained discomfort with the human body and sexuality has had a disproportionate impact on women, making rules about proper behavior that confined women’s roles in church and society. At the same time, Christianity has always inspired a powerful feminism, prompting women to break all the rules. This course will explore Western Christianity during the medieval period, when the tension between misogyny and feminism was particularly powerful and when many of the tensions still felt in Western society were formed. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H223B Body, Sexuality and Christianity (1 Unit)
Christianity’s deeply-ingrained discomfort with the human body and sexuality has had a disproportionate impact on women, making rules about proper behavior that confined women’s roles in church and society. At the same time, Christianity has always inspired a powerful feminism, prompting women to break all the rules. This course will explore Western Christianity during the medieval period, when the tension between misogyny and feminism was particularly powerful and when many of the tensions still felt in Western society were formed. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H224 Indigenizing Islam Transnationally: Race, Gender, Ethnicity (1 Unit)
This course introduces students to the myriad arguments and controversies surrounding the “indigenization” of Islam in different non-Muslim societies around the world. The main areas of focus will be Europe (primarily the UK and France), the US, and China.
RELG H224B Indigenizing Islam Transnationally: Race, Gender, Ethnicity (1 Unit)
This course introduces students to the myriad arguments and controversies surrounding the “indigenization” of Islam in different non-Muslim societies around the world. The main areas of focus will be Europe (primarily the UK and France), the US, and China.
RELG H228 Break Every Yoke: Incarceration, Abolition, and Social Justice (1 Unit)
Students in this course will be invited to explore the intersection of religion with issues of mass incarceration, prison abolition, and social justice in the United States. Students will read important works of abolitionist thought, will explore the religious origins of the modern penitentiary, and will produce original research that draws on the history of religious approaches to incarceration, abolition, and social justice to comment on contemporary debates over these same issues. Crosslisted: PEAC. Lottery Preference: Religion Majors, PJHR Concentrators Enrollment Limit: 20
RELG H228A Break Every Yoke: Incarceration, Abolition, and Social Justice (1 Unit)
Students in this course will be invited to explore the intersection of religion with issues of mass incarceration, prison abolition, and social justice in the United States. Students will read important works of abolitionist thought, will explore the religious origins of the modern penitentiary, and will produce original research that draws on the history of religious approaches to incarceration, abolition, and social justice to comment on contemporary debates over these same issues. Crosslisted: PEAC. Lottery Preference: Religion Majors, PJHR Concentrators Enrollment Limit: 20
RELG H229 Black Religion and Womanist Thought (1 Unit)
This course invites students to attend to the intersections of black, feminist, and liberation thought and praxis by engaging womanist theology. Through a broad and critical examination of essays, scholarly texts, novels, and documentaries, we will explore discourses around themes of epistemology, spirituality, representation, and activism. We will particularly attend to: (1) assumptions and claims about knowledge production and methods; (2) spiritual, religious and ethical motifs; (3) identity formation, social location, and identity politics; and (4) feminist/womanist activism addressing issues of race/heritage, culture, class, gender, and sexuality. Through daily discussion and written assignments, students will develop critical analytic skills and be equipped with a foundational knowledge base to further examine womanist worldviews and ethos in multiple religious traditions and in the world around them.
RELG H229B Black Religion and Womanist Thought (1 Unit)
This course invites students to attend to the intersections of black, feminist, and liberation thought and praxis by engaging womanist theology. Through a broad and critical examination of essays, scholarly texts, novels, and documentaries, we will explore discourses around themes of epistemology, spirituality, representation, and activism. We will particularly attend to: (1) assumptions and claims about knowledge production and methods; (2) spiritual, religious and ethical motifs; (3) identity formation, social location, and identity politics; and (4) feminist/womanist activism addressing issues of race/heritage, culture, class, gender, and sexuality. Through daily discussion and written assignments, students will develop critical analytic skills and be equipped with a foundational knowledge base to further examine womanist worldviews and ethos in multiple religious traditions and in the world around them.
RELG H230 Religion and Black Freedom Struggle (1 Unit)
This course will examine the background for and the key events, figures, philosophies, tactics, and consequences of the modern black freedom struggle in United States. The period from 1955-1965 will receive special attention, but the roots of the freedom struggle and the effect on recent American political, social, and cultural history will also be considered. Enrollment Limit: 25 Lottery Preference(s): Majors have priority by seniority
RELG H230A Religion and Black Freedom Struggle (1 Unit)
This course will examine the background for and the key events, figures, philosophies, tactics, and consequences of the modern black freedom struggle in United States. The period from 1955-1965 will receive special attention, but the roots of the freedom struggle and the effect on recent American political, social, and cultural history will also be considered. Enrollment Limit: 25 Lottery Preference(s): Majors have priority by seniority
RELG H230B Religion and Black Freedom Struggle (1 Unit)
This course will examine the background for and the key events, figures, philosophies, tactics, and consequences of the modern black freedom struggle in United States. The period from 1955-1965 will receive special attention, but the roots of the freedom struggle and the effect on recent American political, social, and cultural history will also be considered. Enrollment Limit: 25 Lottery Preference(s): Majors have priority by seniority
RELG H231A Religious Themes in African American Literature (1 Unit)
This course will explore African American literary texts as a basis for religious inquiry. Throughout the course we will examine African American novelists and literary scholars using their works as a way of understanding black religious traditions and engaging important themes in the study of religion. Authors discussed may include Zora Neale Hurston, James Baldwin, Ishmael Reed, Maryse Conde and others. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H231B Religious Themes in African American Literature (1 Unit)
This course will explore African American literary texts as a basis for religious inquiry. Throughout the course we will examine African American novelists and literary scholars using their works as a way of understanding black religious traditions and engaging important themes in the study of religion. Authors discussed may include Zora Neale Hurston, James Baldwin, Ishmael Reed, Maryse Conde and others. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H233 Saints and Sinners: Europe's Religious Worlds, 1500-1900 (1 Unit)
This course surveys European religious history from the early fifteenth century, when Martin Luther ignited debates about sin, faith, and salvation, to the end of the nineteenth, when Friedrich Nietzsche proclaimed the death of God. We will trace the evolution of Christian and Jewish religious traditions, their encounters with the cultures of the “New World,” and their interactions with cultural and intellectual developments such as the rise of toleration, the Enlightenment, revolutions, Romanticism, and secularization. Crosslisted: HIST,RELG. Enrollment Limit: 25.00
RELG H233B Saints and Sinners: Europe's Religious Worlds, 1500-1900 (1 Unit)
This course surveys European religious history from the early fifteenth century, when Martin Luther ignited debates about sin, faith, and salvation, to the end of the nineteenth, when Friedrich Nietzsche proclaimed the death of God. We will trace the evolution of Christian and Jewish religious traditions, their encounters with the cultures of the “New World,” and their interactions with cultural and intellectual developments such as the rise of toleration, the Enlightenment, revolutions, Romanticism, and secularization. Crosslisted: HIST,RELG. Enrollment Limit: 25.00
RELG H236 Race and Judaism (1 Unit)
Charlottesville, 2017. White supremacists chanted “Jews will not replace us!”—but what did they mean? Are European Jews white? Is Zionism racism? Is Judaism just a religion? Regarded as the "other" of European history and politics, the perpetrators of discrimination in Israel/Palestine, and advocates of racial justice in America, Jews play a significant role in contemporary racial discourses. This course is a survey of Jewish history and politics through the lens of race. We will examine primary documents, works of history, fiction, film, comedy, ethnography, and theory in order to make sense of present problems in Israel, Europe, and America.
RELG H236B Race and Judaism (1 Unit)
Charlottesville, 2017. White supremacists chanted “Jews will not replace us!”—but what did they mean? Are European Jews white? Is Zionism racism? Is Judaism just a religion? Regarded as the "other" of European history and politics, the perpetrators of discrimination in Israel/Palestine, and advocates of racial justice in America, Jews play a significant role in contemporary racial discourses. This course is a survey of Jewish history and politics through the lens of race. We will examine primary documents, works of history, fiction, film, comedy, ethnography, and theory in order to make sense of present problems in Israel, Europe, and America.
RELG H237 Genocide, Exile and Resistance: Dari Persian and Hazara Poetry from Afghanistan (1 Unit)
This course combines language instruction with hands-on collaborative work of literary translation. Students enrolled will be involved in intensive studies of the Persian language, in particular its Dari variant. This will be coupled with course readings on the history and literature of the Persophone Hazara community in Afghanistan and translation practices using contemporary Persian Hazara poems collected from Hazara poets in exile across the world. COML 100 Intro to Persian is recommended. Crosslisted: RELG, COML.
RELG H237B Genocide, Exile and Resistance: Dari Persian and Hazara Poetry from Afghanistan (1 Unit)
This course combines language instruction with hands-on collaborative work of literary translation. Students enrolled will be involved in intensive studies of the Persian language, in particular its Dari variant. This will be coupled with course readings on the history and literature of the Persophone Hazara community in Afghanistan and translation practices using contemporary Persian Hazara poems collected from Hazara poets in exile across the world. COML 100 Intro to Persian is recommended. Crosslisted: RELG, COML.
RELG H240A History and Principles of Quakerism (1 Unit)
The development of Quakerism and its relationship to other religious movements and to political and social life, especially in America. The roots of the Society of Friends in 17th-century Britain, and the expansion of Quaker influences among Third World populations, particularly the Native American, Hispanic, east African, and Asian populations. Crosslisted: Religion, History Enrollment Limit: 35
RELG H240B History and Principles of Quakerism (1 Unit)
The development of Quakerism and its relationship to other religious movements and to political and social life, especially in America. The roots of the Society of Friends in 17th-century Britain, and the expansion of Quaker influences among Third World populations, particularly the Native American, Hispanic, east African, and Asian populations. Crosslisted: Religion, History Enrollment Limit: 35
RELG H242A Topics in Religion and Intellectual History: The Religious Writings of James Baldwin (1 Unit)
An investigation of various traditions of the black religious experience from slavery to the present. Religious traditions examined within the course may include slave religion, black Christianity, Gullah religion, Santeria and Islam. The relationship of these religious traditions to American social history as well as how they adapted over space and time will also be explored. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H242B Topics in African American Religious History: The Religious Writings of James Baldwin (1 Unit)
This course will explore the intellectual thought of novelist, writer, activist, James Baldwin. The course will cover four decades of James Baldwin's fiction and non-fiction writings. Students will also be asked to read relevant biographical materials that help to contextualize Baldwin's life and literary corpus. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H245 Topics in American Religion (1 Unit)
Seminar in specialized topics in American Religion to be determined by the professor. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H245A Topics in American Religion (1 Unit)
Seminar in specialized topics in American Religion to be determined by the professor. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H247 Death and the Afterlife in East Asia (1 Unit)
This course engages the rich textual and visual traditions of China, Korea, and Japan to illuminate funerary and memorial practices and explore the terrain of the next world. Students will learn about the culturally constructed nature of religious belief and come to see the complexity and diversity of the influences on understandings of life and death. The course is not a chronological survey, but rather alternates between modern and ancient narratives and practices to draw a picture of the relationship between the living and the dead as conceived in East Asian religions.
RELG H247B Death and the Afterlife in East Asia (1 Unit)
This course engages the rich textual and visual traditions of China, Korea, and Japan to illuminate funerary and memorial practices and explore the terrain of the next world. Students will learn about the culturally constructed nature of religious belief and come to see the complexity and diversity of the influences on understandings of life and death. The course is not a chronological survey, but rather alternates between modern and ancient narratives and practices to draw a picture of the relationship between the living and the dead as conceived in East Asian religions.
RELG H248A The Quran (1 Unit)
Overview of the Qur'an, the scripture of Islam. Major themes include: orality, textuality, sanctity and material culture; revelation, translation, and inimitability; calligraphy, bookmaking and architecture; along with modes of scriptural exegesis as practiced over time by both Muslims and non-Muslims alike. Crosslisted: Religion, Comparative Literature Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H248B The Quran (1 Unit)
Overview of the Qur'an, the scripture of Islam. Major themes include: orality, textuality, sanctity and material culture; revelation, translation, and inimitability; calligraphy, bookmaking and architecture; along with modes of scriptural exegesis as practiced over time by both Muslims and non-Muslims alike. Crosslisted: Religion, Comparative Literature Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H249 Islamic Mysticism (1 Unit)
A course on Islamic Mysticism studied through the texts of al-Ghazzali and Rumi. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H249A Islamic Mysticism (1 Unit)
A course on Islamic Mysticism studied through the texts of al-Ghazzali and Rumi. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H250A Jewish Images, Imagining Jews (1 Unit)
An exploration of how Jews imagined themselves, and how others imagined Jews, through various works of art (literature, film, sculpture, painting, and photography), with particular focus on modern American visual culture. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H250B Jewish Images, Imagining Jews (1 Unit)
An exploration of how Jews imagined themselves, and how others imagined Jews, through various works of art (literature, film, sculpture, painting, and photography), with particular focus on modern American visual culture. Enrollment Limit: 25.
RELG H251 Comparative Mysticism (1 Unit)
Readings in medieval Jewish, Christian and Islamic mystical thought with a focus on the Zohar, Meister Eckhart, the Beguine mystics Hadewijch of Antwerp and Marguerite Porete, and the Sufi Master Ibn ’Arabi. The texts are a basis for discussions of comparative mysticism and of the relationship of mysticism to modern critical theories.
RELG H251A Comparative Mysticism (1 Unit)
Readings in medieval Jewish, Christian and Islamic mystical thought with a focus on the Zohar, Meister Eckhart, the Beguine mystics Hadewijch of Antwerp and Marguerite Porete, and the Sufi Master Ibn ’Arabi. The texts are a basis for discussions of comparative mysticism and of the relationship of mysticism to modern critical theories.
RELG H254 RAP and Religion: Rhymes about God and the Good (1 Unit)
We will explore the origins, existential, and ethical dimensions of Rhythm and Poetry (RAP) music. Giving attention to RAP songs written and produced by African American artists, including Tupac, Nas, Jay-Z, The Roots, Lauryn Hill, and Kanye West, we will analyze their work with an interest in understanding a) the conceptions of God and the good reflected in them, b) how these conceptions connect to and reflect African American social and cultural practices, and c) how the conceptions under consideration change over time. Enrollment Limit: 25 Lottery Preference(s): Senior religion majors, then junior religion majors, then all others
RELG H254B RAP and Religion: Rhymes about God and the Good (1 Unit)
We will explore the origins, existential, and ethical dimensions of Rhythm and Poetry (RAP) music. Giving attention to RAP songs written and produced by African American artists, including Tupac, Nas, Jay-Z, The Roots, Lauryn Hill, and Kanye West, we will analyze their work with an interest in understanding a) the conceptions of God and the good reflected in them, b) how these conceptions connect to and reflect African American social and cultural practices, and c) how the conceptions under consideration change over time. Enrollment Limit: 25 Lottery Preference(s): Senior religion majors, then junior religion majors, then all others
RELG H255A Anthropology of Religion (1 Unit)
Anthropological studies in the history and theory of religion. Crosslisted: Anthopology, Religion Enrollment Limit: 35
RELG H255B Anthropology of Religion (1 Unit)
Anthropological studies in the history and theory of religion. Crosslisted: Anthropology, Religion Enrollment Limit: 35
RELG H256 Zen Thought, Zen Culture, Zen History (1 Unit)
What are we talking about when we talk about Zen? This course is an introduction to the intellectual and cultural history of the style of Buddhism known as Zen in Japanese. We will examine the development and expression of this religious movement in China, Korea, Japan and Vietnam. Crosslisted: East Asian Languages & Cultures, History, Religion Enrollment Limit: 30 Lottery preference: Major and minors by class starting with Seniors.
RELG H256A Zen Thought, Zen Culture, Zen History (1 Unit)
What are we talking about when we talk about Zen? This course is an introduction to the intellectual and cultural history of the style of Buddhism known as Zen in Japanese. We will examine the development and expression of this religious movement in China, Korea, Japan and Vietnam. Crosslisted: East Asian Languages & Cultures, History, Religion Enrollment Limit: 30 Lottery preference: Major and minors by class starting with Seniors.
RELG H256B Zen Thought, Zen Culture, Zen History (1 Unit)
What are we talking about when we talk about Zen? This course is an introduction to the intellectual and cultural history of the style of Buddhism known as Zen in Japanese. We will examine the development and expression of this religious movement in China, Korea, Japan and Vietnam. Crosslisted: East Asian Languages & Cultures, History, Religion Enrollment Limit: 30 Majors and minors by class (seniors then juniors).
RELG H257 Yoga: Art, Text and Practice (1 Unit)
This course investigates the range of meanings attributed to the term yoga over two thousand years and across multiple geographical and cultural communities. These include exploring relationship between texts, images, and the practice of yoga in Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain communities, as well as modern manifestations associated with nationalist developments of the nineteenth century and global cosmopolitanisms and contemporary politics as part of ongoing transformations. Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H257A Yoga: Art, Text and Practice (1 Unit)
This course investigates the range of meanings attributed to the term yoga over two thousand years and across multiple geographical and cultural communities. These include exploring relationship between texts, images, and the practice of yoga in Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain communities, as well as modern manifestations associated with nationalist developments of the nineteenth century and global cosmopolitanisms and contemporary politics as part of ongoing transformations. Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H257B Yoga: Art, Text and Practice (1 Unit)
This course investigates the range of meanings attributed to the term yoga over two thousand years and across multiple geographical and cultural communities. These include exploring relationship between texts, images, and the practice of yoga in Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain communities, as well as modern manifestations associated with nationalist developments of the nineteenth century and global cosmopolitanisms and contemporary politics as part of ongoing transformations. Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H258 Feminist Jewish and Christian Thought (1 Unit)
An exploration of gender in Judaism and Christianity through a study of feminist and queer thinkers who critique and contribute to these traditions. Topics include sex/gender difference, the gender of God, and the nature of divine authority. Prerequisite(s): Familiarity with philosophical and/or theoretical inquiry is recommended Enrollment Limit: 25 Lottery Preference(s): Sophomore standing or higher
RELG H258A Feminist Jewish and Christian Thought (1 Unit)
An exploration of gender in Judaism and Christianity through a study of feminist and queer thinkers who critique and contribute to these traditions. Topics include sex/gender difference, the gender of God, and the nature of divine authority. Prerequisite(s): Familiarity with philosophical and/or theoretical inquiry is recommended Enrollment Limit: 25 Lottery Preference(s): Sophomore standing or higher
RELG H258B Feminist Jewish and Christian Thought (1 Unit)
An exploration of gender in Judaism and Christianity through a study of feminist and queer thinkers who critique and contribute to these traditions. Topics include sex/gender difference, the gender of God, and the nature of divine authority. Prerequisite(s): Familiarity with philosophical and/or theoretical inquiry is recommended Enrollment Limit: 25 Lottery Preference(s): Sophomore standing or higher
RELG H259 Gender and Sexuality in Islamic Texts and Practices (1 Unit)
This course introduces students to the different views of gender and sexuality in Islamic thought, and situates these views within Muslim histories and societies. We will draw on primary sources, historiographical work, ethnographies of Muslim societies, fiction, poetry, and play. One major focus will be on homosexuality in Islam and Muslim societies. In the course of this examination we will also have a chance to question what “homosexuality” is and whether this term can be applied cross-culturally and cross-religiously. To think critically about homosexuality in Islam will thus compel us to reconsider homosexuality and Islam at once.
RELG H259A Gender and Sexuality in Islamic Texts and Practices (1 Unit)
This course introduces students to the different views of gender and sexuality in Islamic thought, and situates these views within Muslim histories and societies. We will draw on primary sources, historiographical work, ethnographies of Muslim societies, fiction, poetry, and play. One major focus will be on homosexuality in Islam and Muslim societies. In the course of this examination we will also have a chance to question what “homosexuality” is and whether this term can be applied cross-culturally and cross-religiously. To think critically about homosexuality in Islam will thus compel us to reconsider homosexuality and Islam at once.
RELG H259B Gender and Sexuality in Islamic Texts and Practices (1 Unit)
This course introduces students to the different views of gender and sexuality in Islamic thought, and situates these views within Muslim histories and societies. We will draw on primary sources, historiographical work, ethnographies of Muslim societies, fiction, poetry, and play. One major focus will be on homosexuality in Islam and Muslim societies. In the course of this examination we will also have a chance to question what “homosexuality” is and whether this term can be applied cross-culturally and cross-religiously. To think critically about homosexuality in Islam will thus compel us to reconsider homosexuality and Islam at once.
RELG H260 Getting Medieval (1 Unit)
Explores literary and philosophical exchanges, alongside religious violence and persecution, amongst Jews, Christians, and Muslims in the late Antiquity and the Middle Ages. Enrollment Limit: 35
RELG H260A Getting Medieval (1 Unit)
Explores literary and philosophical exchanges, alongside religious violence and persecution, amongst Jews, Christians, and Muslims in the late Antiquity and the Middle Ages. Enrollment Limit: 35
RELG H264A Religion and Violence (1 Unit)
RELG H264B Religion and Violence (1 Unit)
This course explores the academic ways we think about religion and violence. We will read scholars including Rene Girard, Judith Butler, Talal Asad, and Mark Jeurgensmeyer. We will examine moments of religious violence across time and space, with special focus on episodes in recent U.S. history, including the events at Jonestown in 1978, the MOVE Bombing, the attacks of September 11th, 2001, and the assault on the U.S. Capitol Building in 2021. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H266A Virtue, Friendship, and Democratic Practice (1 Unit)
This course examines how classical authors, theologians, and contemporary political theorists have thought about the virtues and demands of friendship and the politics that emerge from practices of friendship. Taught as POLS B266 in alternating years. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H267 Religion and Poetry (1 Unit)
An exploration of the relationship between religion and poetry, using both sacred and secular poetic texts. How is poetic language used to express religious ideas? How do sacred texts inform secular poetry? Assignments will include both critical and creative writing. Enrollment Limit: 25 In case of over-enrollment, priority given to those with sophomore standing or higher
RELG H267B Religion and Poetry (1 Unit)
An exploration of the relationship between religion and poetry, using both sacred and secular poetic texts. How is poetic language used to express religious ideas? How do sacred texts inform secular poetry? Assignments will include both critical and creative writing. Enrollment Limit: 25 In case of over-enrollment, priority given to those with sophomore standing or higher
RELG H268 Anarchism: Religion, Ethics, Political Obligation (1 Unit)
Anarchism emerged in the nineteenth century as an important transnational sociopolitical philosophy and religious movement. Course participants will analyze anarchism as a political philosophy and as a social movement, from the nineteenth century labor movement to the ongoing global justice movement. Enrollment Limit: 25 Lottery Preference(s): Religion Majors, Peace concentrators
RELG H268A Anarchism: Religion, Ethics, Political Obligation (1 Unit)
Anarchism emerged in the nineteenth century as an important transnational sociopolitical philosophy and religious movement. Course participants will analyze anarchism as a political philosophy and as a social movement, from the nineteenth century labor movement to the ongoing global justice movement. Enrollment Limit: 25 Lottery Preference(s): Religion Majors, Peace concentrators
RELG H268B Anarchism: Religion, Ethics, Political Obligation (1 Unit)
Anarchism emerged in the nineteenth century as an important transnational sociopolitical philosophy and religious movement. Course participants will analyze anarchism as a political philosophy and as a social movement, from the nineteenth century labor movement to the ongoing global justice movement. Enrollment Limit: 25 Lottery Preference(s): Religion Majors, Peace concentrators
RELG H271 Religion, America, and the Science of Life (1 Unit)
A survey of transformations in the American religious landscape prompted by the publication of the Darwinian theory of evolution, from 1859 to the present.
RELG H271A Religion, America, and the Science of Life (1 Unit)
A survey of transformations in the American religious landscape prompted by the publication of the Darwinian theory of evolution, from 1859 to the present.
RELG H272 Religion in the United States (1 Unit)
This course will investigate the historically shifting roles of religion in American society and the increasing prevalence of religious diversity throughout the country. The class will consider the functions of religion within settler colonialism, slavery, and immigration, and explore how religion has shaped popular culture, the legal system, and American identity. The class will also examine the role of religion within changing notions of gender, sexuality, and race. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H272A Religion in the United States (1 Unit)
This course will investigate the historically shifting roles of religion in American society and the increasing prevalence of religious diversity throughout the country. The class will consider the functions of religion within settler colonialism, slavery, and immigration, and explore how religion has shaped popular culture, the legal system, and American identity. The class will also examine the role of religion within changing notions of gender, sexuality, and race. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H272B Religion in the United States (1 Unit)
This course will investigate the historically shifting roles of religion in American society and the increasing prevalence of religious diversity throughout the country. The class will consider the functions of religion within settler colonialism, slavery, and immigration, and explore how religion has shaped popular culture, the legal system, and American identity. The class will also examine the role of religion within changing notions of gender, sexuality, and race. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H273 Graphic Religion: The Ethics of Representation (1 Unit)
An examination of multiple visual “texts”--film, photography, graphic novels, and other plastic arts--to uncover the ethical obligations, moral commitments, theological convictions, individual attachments, and communal duties that arise in seeing religion. Enrollment Limit: 25 Lottery Preference(s): 1. Religion majors 2. Religion minors 3. Seniors 4. Juniors 5. Sophomores
RELG H273B Graphic Religion: The Ethics of Representation (1 Unit)
An examination of multiple visual “texts”--film, photography, graphic novels, and other plastic arts--to uncover the ethical obligations, moral commitments, theological convictions, individual attachments, and communal duties that arise in seeing religion. Enrollment Limit: 25 Lottery Preference(s): 1. Religion majors 2. Religion minors 3. Seniors 4. Juniors 5. Sophomores
RELG H274 The Problem of Evil: Ancient Answers to a Difficult Question (1 Unit)
What is evil, and where does it come from? The difficulty of answering these questions is only matched by their importance to our lived human experience. Together we will study a wide range of texts from Archaic Greece through the early Middle Ages, and throughout the course, students will be encouraged to consider and reconsider their own understanding of these urgent issues. No previous experience in Classics or the ancient world is required. Crosslisted: COML,RELG. Pre-requisite(s): None Lottery Preference: Ten slots reserved for first years, preference to Classics majors and minors Enrollment Limit: 45
RELG H274A The Problem of Evil: Ancient Answers to a Difficult Question (1 Unit)
What is evil, and where does it come from? The difficulty of answering these questions is only matched by their importance to our lived human experience. Together we will study a wide range of texts from Archaic Greece through the early Middle Ages, and throughout the course, students will be encouraged to consider and reconsider their own understanding of these urgent issues. No previous experience in Classics or the ancient world is required. Crosslisted: COML,RELG. Pre-requisite(s): None Lottery Preference: Ten slots reserved for first years, preference to Classics majors and minors Enrollment Limit: 45
RELG H276 Religion and U.S. Politics: Sexuality, Race, Gender, and the Regulation of American Bodies (1 Unit)
This course examines why religion is commonly invoked in political debates about sexuality and gender even though the United States promotes itself as a secular democracy. The class will question if the United States has a secular government, explore what the separation of church and state means, and analyze if American citizens have religious freedom. The class will also explore the role religion has played in political movements centered on race, gender, and sexuality, and question why women’s reproductive rights and LGBTQ issues have been a common focus for government regulations and religious lobbying. Enrollment Limit: 25 Lottery Preference(s): Religion Majors, Gen/Sex Concentrators, then First Year students.
RELG H276A Religion and U.S. Politics: Sexuality, Race, Gender, and the Regulation of American Bodies (1 Unit)
This course examines why religion is commonly invoked in political debates about sexuality and gender even though the United States promotes itself as a secular democracy. The class will question if the United States has a secular government, explore what the separation of church and state means, and analyze if American citizens have religious freedom. The class will also explore the role religion has played in political movements centered on race, gender, and sexuality, and question why women’s reproductive rights and LGBTQ issues have been a common focus for government regulations and religious lobbying. Enrollment Limit: 25 Lottery Preference(s): Religion Majors, Gen/Sex Concentrators, then First Year students.
RELG H276B Religion and U.S. Politics: Sexuality, Race, Gender, and the Regulation of American Bodies (1 Unit)
This course examines why religion is commonly invoked in political debates about sexuality and gender even though the United States promotes itself as a secular democracy. The class will question if the United States has a secular government, explore what the separation of church and state means, and analyze if American citizens have religious freedom. The class will also explore the role religion has played in political movements centered on race, gender, and sexuality, and question why women’s reproductive rights and LGBTQ issues have been a common focus for government regulations and religious lobbying. Enrollment Limit: 25 Lottery Preference(s): Religion Majors, Gen/Sex Concentrators, then First Year students.
RELG H277A Modern Christian Thought (1 Unit)
The impact of modernity and postmodernity on traditional Christian thought in the West. Readings may include Barth, Cone, Feuerbach, Frei, Hegel, Hume, Irigaray, Kant, Kierkegaard, Lindbeck, Marion, McFague, Milbank, Nietzsche, Rahner, Schleiermacher, Segundo, Tracey and von Balthasar. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H277B Modern Christian Thought (1 Unit)
The impact of modernity and postmodernity on traditional Christian thought in the West. Readings may include Barth, Cone, Feuerbach, Frei, Hegel, Hume, Irigaray, Kant, Kierkegaard, Lindbeck, Marion, McFague, Milbank, Nietzsche, Rahner, Schleiermacher, Segundo, Tracey and von Balthasar. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H278 Christian Thought from Modernity to Post- modernity (1 Unit)
Twentieth-century and Twenty-First Century Christian thought in the West. Readings may include Barth, Bultmann, Reinhold Niebuhr, Rahner, von Balthasar, Segundo, Tracey, Frei, McFague, Irigaray, Cone, Lindbeck, Marion, and others.
RELG H278B Christian Thought from Modernity to Post- modernity (1 Unit)
Twentieth-century and Twenty-First Century Christian thought in the West. Readings may include Barth, Bultmann, Reinhold Niebuhr, Rahner, von Balthasar, Segundo, Tracey, Frei, McFague, Irigaray, Cone, Lindbeck, Marion, and others.
RELG H280 Ethics and the Good Life (1 Unit)
This course examines influential accounts of the ""good life"" in Western religious and philosophical traditions, and the ways that contemporary ethicists draw on those accounts to think about religion, ethics, and politics today. We pay particular attention to the social and political dimensions of these accounts of the good life, to consider how we can live well together in spite of our differences. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H280B Ethics and the Good Life (1 Unit)
This course examines influential accounts of the ""good life"" in Western religious and philosophical traditions, and the ways that contemporary ethicists draw on those accounts to think about religion, ethics, and politics today. We pay particular attention to the social and political dimensions of these accounts of the good life, to consider how we can live well together in spite of our differences. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H281 Modern Jewish Thought (1 Unit)
Jewish responses to modern philosophy and science that challenge traditional Jewish religious expression and thought. The course examines how Jewish thinkers engage modern debates on historical inquiry, biblical criticism, existentialism, ethics, and feminism. Our goal will be to assess those debates, and determine how these thinkers construct and defend modern Jewish identity in the face of competing options. Readings may include Spinoza, Mendelssohn, Cohen, Rosenzweig, Heschel, Buber, and Adler.
RELG H281B Modern Jewish Thought (1 Unit)
Jewish responses to modern philosophy and science that challenge traditional Jewish religious expression and thought. The course examines how Jewish thinkers engage modern debates on historical inquiry, biblical criticism, existentialism, ethics, and feminism. Our goal will be to assess those debates, and determine how these thinkers construct and defend modern Jewish identity in the face of competing options. Readings may include Spinoza, Mendelssohn, Cohen, Rosenzweig, Heschel, Buber, and Adler.
RELG H282 The Allegorical Imagination (1 Unit)
An exploration of allegory as a recurring literary, philosophical, and religious phonomenon in Western literature and culture. Readings may include Philo, Origen, Augustine, Prudentius, Dante, Bunyan,Coleridge, Emerson,Auerbach, Bloom, Fletcher, DeMan.
RELG H282A The Allegorical Imagination (1 Unit)
An exploration of allegory as a recurring literary, philosophical, and religious phonomenon in Western literature and culture. Readings may include Philo, Origen, Augustine, Prudentius, Dante, Bunyan,Coleridge, Emerson,Auerbach, Bloom, Fletcher, DeMan.
RELG H284 American Judaism (1 Unit)
An exploration of the cultural, social and religious dynamics of American Judaism. Representation of Jewish identity in American culture and issues of Jewish material, gender and ritual practices in American history. How Jews express identity through material objects and how persons work with objects to produce religious meaning.
RELG H284A American Judaism (1 Unit)
An exploration of the cultural, social and religious dynamics of American Judaism. Representation of Jewish identity in American culture and issues of Jewish material, gender and ritual practices in American history. How Jews express identity through material objects and how persons work with objects to produce religious meaning.
RELG H285 Religion and the Limits of Liberalism (1 Unit)
An examination of political liberalism in debates on religion, democracy and tradition. Particular attention is given to the relationship between individuals and their communities and theological responses to debates on individual rights and the common good.
RELG H285B Religion and the Limits of Liberalism (1 Unit)
An examination of political liberalism in debates on religion, democracy and tradition. Particular attention is given to the relationship between individuals and their communities and theological responses to debates on individual rights and the common good.
RELG H286 Religion and American Public Life (1 Unit)
What is religious freedom? How have debates about the role of religion in public life shaped American politics? And how have anxieties about race, gender, and sexuality determined the limits and possibilities of religious freedom? Grounding contemporary political debates in their historical context, students analyze speeches, court cases, visual and popular culture, and political theory and philosophy to explore the complex relationship between religion and politics in the U.S. Enrollment limit: 25
RELG H286A Religion and American Public Life (1 Unit)
This course explores the complex relationship between religion and politics in the U.S. We ask: what, exactly, is religious freedom? What do we mean by the separation of church and state? In what ways has religion shaped U.S. democracy? And how do citizens navigate the tensions between their religious commitments and democratic allegiances? Enrollment limit: 25
RELG H286B Religion and American Public Life (1 Unit)
What is religious freedom? How have debates about the role of religion in public life shaped American politics? And how have anxieties about race, gender, and sexuality determined the limits and possibilities of religious freedom? Grounding contemporary political debates in their historical context, students analyze speeches, court cases, visual and popular culture, and political theory and philosophy to explore the complex relationship between religion and politics in the U.S. Enrollment limit: 25
RELG H289 Queer Religion (1 Unit)
This course analyzes how religions have become queer. We will look historically, globally, and at the present day to explore how LGBTQ+ people have promoted once-heretical ideas and practices, reinterpreted sacred texts, and reimagined alternative sexual, gender, and religious possibilities. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H289B Queer Religion (1 Unit)
This course analyzes how religions have become queer. We will look historically, globally, and at the present day to explore how LGBTQ+ people have promoted once-heretical ideas and practices, reinterpreted sacred texts, and reimagined alternative sexual, gender, and religious possibilities. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H295 Quakers, War, and Slavery, 1646-1877 (1 Unit)
In the 1640s and 50s, many Quakers believed that Christians should fight in wars; none of them (as far as we know) believed that Christians ought not own slaves. By 1723, most Quakers had renounced war; a good many of them had begun to assert that owning slaves was contrary to the will of God. Students in this course will try to determine how—and also why—Quakers changed their minds about war and slavery. Crosslisted: Independent College Programs; Peace, Justice and Human Rights; Religion Prerequisite(s): First Year Writing Enrollment Limit: 15 Lottery Preference(s): Religion majors and PJHR concentrators
RELG H295B Quakers, War, and Slavery, 1646-1877 (1 Unit)
In the 1640s and 50s, many Quakers believed that Christians should fight in wars; none of them (as far as we know) believed that Christians ought not own slaves. By 1723, most Quakers had renounced war; a good many of them had begun to assert that owning slaves was contrary to the will of God. Students in this course will try to determine how—and also why—Quakers changed their minds about war and slavery. Crosslisted: Independent College Programs; Peace, Justice and Human Rights; Religion Prerequisite(s): First Year Writing Enrollment Limit: 15 Lottery Preference(s): Religion majors and PJHR concentrators
RELG H296 Seminar in Quaker Studies: Quaker Enslavers & Abolitionists (1 Unit)
Members of the Society of Friends played a crucial role in the abolition of slavery, both in the Caribbean and in North America. But many members of the Society of Friends were enslavers. In this course, we'll look at the lives led by both Quaker enslavers and abolitionists, as well as by Quakers who began as enslavers and became abolitionists. Lottery Preference: Religion majors Enrollment Limit: 15.00
RELG H296B Seminar in Quaker Studies: Quaker Enslavers & Abolitionists (1 Unit)
Members of the Society of Friends played a crucial role in the abolition of slavery, both in the Caribbean and in North America. But many members of the Society of Friends were enslavers. In this course, we'll look at the lives led by both Quaker enslavers and abolitionists, as well as by Quakers who began as enslavers and became abolitionists. Lottery Preference: Religion majors Enrollment Limit: 15.00
RELG H299A Theoretical Perspectives in the Study of Religion (1 Unit)
An introduction to theories of the nature and function of religion from theological, philosophical, psychological, anthropological, and sociological perspectives. Readings may include: Schleiermacher, Marx, Nietzche, Freud, Tylor, Durkheim, Weber, James, Otto, Benjamin, Eliade, Geertz, Foucault, Douglas, Smith, Berger, Haraway. Enrollment Limit: 15 Lottery Preference(s): Senior majors/minors, then Junior majors/minors
RELG H299B Theoretical Perspectives in the Study of Religion (1 Unit)
An introduction to theories of the nature and function of religion from theological, philosophical, psychological, anthropological, and sociological perspectives. Readings may include: Schleiermacher, Marx, Nietzche, Freud, Tylor, Durkheim, Weber, James, Otto, Benjamin, Eliade, Geertz, Foucault, Douglas, Smith, Berger, Haraway. Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H300 Picturing Religion (1 Unit)
RELG H300A Picturing Religion (1 Unit)
RELG H301A Seminar in Religious Traditions in Cultural Context (1 Unit)
This seminar will focus on representations of Mary Magdalene in religious literature, the arts, and contemporary film. The central question of the seminar is not "Who was Mary Magdalene," but rather how can we read the varied images of the Magdalene as reflections of varying religious, social, & cultural norms about gender and sexuality?Sources will include representations of Mary Magdalene in the New Testament and non-canonical texts; artistic representations in medieval and Renaissance art; and images of Mary Magdalene in contemporary literature and film. Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H301B Seminar in Religious Traditions in Cultural Context: The Parables of Jesus (1 Unit)
This seminar offers close reading and analysis of the parables of Jesus in the New Testament gospels and the Gospel of Thomas. The class will consider various modes of interpretation, including comparative study, redaction criticism, and literary analysis of the parables as extended metaphors or allegories. Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H303 Religion, Literature and Representation: The Parables of Jesus (1 Unit)
This seminar offers close reading and analysis of the parables of Jesus in the New Testament gospels and the Gospel of Thomas. The class will consider various modes of interpretation, including comparative study, redaction criticism, theological interpretation, and literary analysis of the parables as extended metaphors or allegories. Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H303A Religion, Literature and Representation: The Parables of Jesus (1 Unit)
This seminar offers close reading and analysis of the parables of Jesus in the New Testament gospels and the Gospel of Thomas. The class will consider various modes of interpretation, including comparative study, redaction criticism, theological interpretation, and literary analysis of the parables as extended metaphors or allegories. Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H303B Religion, Literature and Representation: The Parables of Jesus (1 Unit)
This seminar offers close reading and analysis of the parables of Jesus in the New Testament gospels and the Gospel of Thomas. The class will consider various modes of interpretation, including comparative study, redaction criticism, theological interpretation, and literary analysis of the parables as extended metaphors or allegories. Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H304 Cosmopolitanism and Toleration in Enlightenment Europe (1 Unit)
This seminar will cover the histories of religious toleration and cosmopolitanism in Enlightenment Europe. We will read across a range of different topics - the lives of religious minorities, experiences of cross-cultural travel, memories of religious war – and engage with a variety of texts, from antislavery pamphlets to narratives written by sailors captured by Barbary pirates. We will engage with questions of justice, difference, violence, and culture, exploring the ways in which each of these ideas is historically situated and historically contingent.
RELG H304B Cosmopolitanism and Toleration in Enlightenment Europe (1 Unit)
This seminar will cover the histories of religious toleration and cosmopolitanism in Enlightenment Europe. We will read across a range of different topics - the lives of religious minorities, experiences of cross-cultural travel, memories of religious war – and engage with a variety of texts, from antislavery pamphlets to narratives written by sailors captured by Barbary pirates. We will engage with questions of justice, difference, violence, and culture, exploring the ways in which each of these ideas is historically situated and historically contingent.
RELG H305A Seminar in Religion, Ethics, and Society: Attention and Devotion in Religious Thought (1 Unit)
What's worth paying attention to? And how do we cultivate the capacity for attention? In this seminar, students will read ancient and modern religious and philosophical texts on attention, distraction, and devotion, and will consider them in relation to contemporary conversations about the attention economy. Readings will include Plato, Blaise Pascal, Simone Weil, and Iris Murdoch. Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H305B Seminar in Religion, Ethics, and Society: Productivity and Rest (1 Unit)
We often think of rest as recovery from, and preparation for, a life devoted to work. But religions have other ways of thinking about rest — not merely as a break from the rat race, but as a reorientation to the divine and the world. In this course, students will read 20th and 21st century Jewish and Christian texts on work, productivity, and rest, and consider them in relation to contemporary conversations about work, time management, and the attention economy. Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H306 Of Monsters and Marvels (1 Unit)
From contemplating the cosmos to encountering the monstrous, this course explores the place of wonder in Islamic traditions through readings from the Qur'an, exegesis, prophetic traditions, popular literature, travel narratives, descriptive geography, philosophy and theology.
RELG H306B Of Monsters and Marvels (1 Unit)
From contemplating the cosmos to encountering the monstrous, this course explores the place of wonder in Islamic traditions through readings from the Qur'an, exegesis, prophetic traditions, popular literature, travel narratives, descriptive geography, philosophy and theology.
RELG H307 Imagining Islam: Icon, Object, and Image (1 Unit)
Explores the place of material and visual culture in Islam, examining how Muslims have conceptualized and deployed material and visual forms of religious expressions in a number of historical contexts.
RELG H307B Imagining Islam: Icon, Object, and Image (1 Unit)
Explores the place of material and visual culture in Islam, examining how Muslims have conceptualized and deployed material and visual forms of religious expressions in a number of historical contexts.
RELG H308A Mystical Literatures of Islam (1 Unit)
Overview of the literary expressions of Islamic mysticism through the study of poetry, philosophy, hagiographies, and anecdotes. Topics include: unio mystica; symbol and structure; love and the erotic; body / gender; language and experience. Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H309A Experiencing the Ramayana (1 Unit)
This seminar will explore the South Asian epic, the Ramayana, in a few of the many texts, images, and performance contexts in which it has flourished for over two millennia. We will also consider the Ramayana as a discourse that has been used to present and contest ideas and ideals: a way of talking about everything from gender roles to political ideologies to the nature of the divine. Prerequisite(s): Two courses in Religion or Visual Studies Enrollment Limit: 12
RELG H309B Experiencing the Ramayana (1 Unit)
This seminar will explore the South Asian epic, the Ramayana, in a few of the many texts, images, and performance contexts in which it has flourished for over two millennia. We will also consider the Ramayana as a discourse that has been used to present and contest ideas and ideals: a way of talking about everything from gender roles to political ideologies to the nature of the divine. Prerequisite(s): Two courses in Religion or Visual Studies Enrollment Limit: 12
RELG H310 Sex and Gender in Japanese Buddhism (1 Unit)
In this seminar we will examine the intersection of religion and sexuality in Japanese Buddhism. Crosslisted: East Asian Languages & Cultures, Religion Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H310A Sex and Gender in Japanese Buddhism (1 Unit)
In this seminar we will examine the intersection of religion and sexuality in Japanese Buddhism. Crosslisted: East Asian Languages & Cultures, Religion Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H310B Sex and Gender in Japanese Buddhism (1 Unit)
In this seminar we will examine the intersection of religion and sexuality in Japanese Buddhism. Crosslisted: East Asian Languages & Cultures, Religion Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H312 Ritual and the Body (1 Unit)
An exploration of the meaning and function of ritual, and of the ways that rituals shape bodies, habits, and identities. Special attention will be given to the relationship between ritual and gender. Readings include Durkheim, Mauss, Bourdieu, Butler, and Mahmood. Prerequisite(s): at least one 200 level in the department, or instructor consent Enrollment Limit: 15 Lottery Preference(s): Majors, then other upper-level students who have interest in the subject and permission of the instructor
RELG H312A Ritual and the Body (1 Unit)
An exploration of the meaning and function of ritual, and of the ways that rituals shape bodies, habits, and identities. Special attention will be given to the relationship between ritual and gender. Readings include Durkheim, Mauss, Bourdieu, Butler, and Mahmood. Prerequisite(s): at least one 200 level in the department, or instructor consent Enrollment Limit: 15 Lottery Preference(s): Majors, then other upper-level students who have interest in the subject and permission of the instructor
RELG H312B Ritual and the Body (1 Unit)
An exploration of the meaning and function of ritual, and of the ways that rituals shape bodies, habits, and identities. Special attention will be given to the relationship between ritual and gender. Readings include Durkheim, Mauss, Bourdieu, Butler, and Mahmood. Prerequisite(s): at least one 200 level in the department, or instructor consent Enrollment Limit: 15 Lottery Preference(s): Majors, then other upper-level students who have interest in the subject and permission of the instructor
RELG H313 Politics and Power in Modern Jewish Thought (1 Unit)
This course will explore how Jewish thinkers from the enlightenment to the present wrestled with the question of how Jews might achieve freedom and secure survival in the modern world. We'll examine the challenge that the democratic and scientific revolutions of the 17th and 18th century posed to Jewish life and thought, before delving into the various responses that Jews embraced to meet those challenges. Topics will include Orthodoxy, separatism, Jewish liberalism in Europe and the US, diaspora nationalism, Zionism, anti-Zionism, Bundism and Socialism, post-Holocaust politics and theology, and race and gender in Jewish thought. Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H313B Politics and Power in Modern Jewish Thought (1 Unit)
This course will explore how Jewish thinkers from the enlightenment to the present wrestled with the question of how Jews might achieve freedom and secure survival in the modern world. We'll examine the challenge that the democratic and scientific revolutions of the 17th and 18th century posed to Jewish life and thought, before delving into the various responses that Jews embraced to meet those challenges. Topics will include Orthodoxy, separatism, Jewish liberalism in Europe and the US, diaspora nationalism, Zionism, anti-Zionism, Bundism and Socialism, post-Holocaust politics and theology, and race and gender in Jewish thought. Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H314 Politics and Power in Modern Jewish Thought (1 Unit)
This course will explore how Jewish thinkers from the enlightenment to the present wrestled with the question of how Jews might achieve freedom and secure survival in the modern world. We'll examine the challenge that the democratic and scientific revolutions of the 17th and 18th century posed to Jewish life and thought, before delving into the various responses that Jews embraced to meet those challenges. Topics will include Orthodoxy, separatism, Jewish liberalism in Europe and the US, diaspora nationalism, Zionism, anti-Zionism, Bundism and Socialism, post-Holocaust politics and theology, and race and gender in Jewish thought. Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H314B Politics and Power in Modern Jewish Thought (1 Unit)
This course will explore how Jewish thinkers from the enlightenment to the present wrestled with the question of how Jews might achieve freedom and secure survival in the modern world. We'll examine the challenge that the democratic and scientific revolutions of the 17th and 18th century posed to Jewish life and thought, before delving into the various responses that Jews embraced to meet those challenges. Topics will include Orthodoxy, separatism, Jewish liberalism in Europe and the US, diaspora nationalism, Zionism, anti-Zionism, Bundism and Socialism, post-Holocaust politics and theology, and race and gender in Jewish thought. Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H315 Religious Organizing for Racial Justice (1 Unit)
This course considers the role of multireligious organizations, coalitions, and movements in the struggle for racial justice in the contemporary U.S. Students will learn about the roles, practices, structures, and strategies that these groups use to build solidarity and exercise power. Through readings and discussions, interactions with local organizers, and hand-on activities, students will consider and engage the aims and challenges of religious organizing for racial justice. Pre-requisite(s): At least 2 previous courses at the 200-level in religion, political science, sociology, and/or anthropology, or permission of the instructor. Lottery Preference: Senior religion majors/minors, junior religion majors/minors, other seniors, other juniors, then open to all Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H315B Religious Organizing for Racial Justice (1 Unit)
This course considers the role of multireligious organizations, coalitions, and movements in the struggle for racial justice in the contemporary U.S. Students will learn about the roles, practices, structures, and strategies that these groups use to build solidarity and exercise power. Through readings and discussions, interactions with local organizers, and hand-on activities, students will consider and engage the aims and challenges of religious organizing for racial justice. Pre-requisite(s): At least 2 previous courses at the 200-level in religion, political science, sociology, and/or anthropology, or permission of the instructor. Lottery Preference: Senior religion majors/minors, junior religion majors/minors, other seniors, other juniors, then open to all Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H316 Hegel's Social Ethics (1 Unit)
An examination of religion, ethics, and politics in Hegel’s Phenomenology of Spirit (in translation). As we work through Hegel’s monumental text, we will consider its influence over modern and contemporary discussions of gender, domination, ethical conflict and religious pluralism. Prerequisite(s): At least one 200-level course in philosophy, political theory, or religious thought, or permission of the instructor. Enrollment Limit: 15 Lottery Preference(s): Majors and minors
RELG H316A Hegel's Social Ethics (1 Unit)
An examination of religion, ethics, and politics in Hegel’s Phenomenology of Spirit (in translation). As we work through Hegel’s monumental text, we will consider its influence over modern and contemporary discussions of gender, domination, ethical conflict and religious pluralism. Prerequisite(s): At least one 200-level course in philosophy, political theory, or religious thought, or permission of the instructor. Enrollment Limit: 15 Lottery Preference(s): Majors and minors
RELG H316B Hegel's Social Ethics (1 Unit)
An examination of religion, ethics, and politics in Hegel’s Phenomenology of Spirit (in translation). As we work through Hegel’s monumental text, we will consider its influence over modern and contemporary discussions of gender, domination, ethical conflict and religious pluralism. Prerequisite(s): At least one 200-level course in philosophy, political theory, or religious thought, or permission of the instructor. Enrollment Limit: 15 Lottery Preference(s): Majors and minors
RELG H317 Ethnographies of Magic and the Magic of Ethnography (1 Unit)
Do ethnographies of magic exude their own magical quality, thus enfolded into the very thing they purport to explain? This seminar examines what constitutes ‘good’ ethnographic writing, and in what manner ethnography may be considered a type of modernist literature that crosses over into the science of social investigation. Crosslisted: ANTH. Pre-requisite(s): at least one 100-level course on Religion or Anthropology, preferably a 200-level course in either field Lottery Preference: 1. Religion majors and minors 2. Anthropology majors and minors Enrollment Limit: 15.00
RELG H317A Ethnographies of Magic and the Magic of Ethnography (1 Unit)
Do ethnographies of magic exude their own magical quality, thus enfolded into the very thing they purport to explain? This seminar examines what constitutes ‘good’ ethnographic writing, and in what manner ethnography may be considered a type of modernist literature that crosses over into the science of social investigation. Crosslisted: ANTH. Pre-requisite(s): at least one 100-level course on Religion or Anthropology, preferably a 200-level course in either field Lottery Preference: 1. Religion majors and minors 2. Anthropology majors and minors Enrollment Limit: 15.00
RELG H317B Ethnographies of Magic and the Magic of Ethnography (1 Unit)
Do ethnographies of magic exude their own magical quality, thus enfolded into the very thing they purport to explain? This seminar examines what constitutes ‘good’ ethnographic writing, and in what manner ethnography may be considered a type of modernist literature that crosses over into the science of social investigation. Crosslisted: ANTH. Pre-requisite(s): at least one 100-level course on Religion or Anthropology, preferably a 200-level course in either field Lottery Preference: 1. Religion majors and minors 2. Anthropology majors and minors Enrollment Limit: 15.00
RELG H319 Black Queer Saints: Sex, Gender, Race, Class and the Quest for Liberation (1 Unit)
Drawing on fiction, biography, critical theory, film, essays, and memoirs, participants will explore how certain African American artists, activists, and religionists have resisted, represented, and reinterpreted sex, sexuality, and gender norms in the context of capitalist, white supremacist, male supremacist, and heteronormative cultures. Crosslisted: Africana Studies, Religion Prerequisite(s): 200-level Humanities course, or instructor consent Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H319A Black Queer Saints: Sex, Gender, Race, Class and the Quest for Liberation (1 Unit)
Drawing on fiction, biography, critical theory, film, essays, and memoirs, participants will explore how certain African American artists, activists, and religionists have resisted, represented, and reinterpreted sex, sexuality, and gender norms in the context of capitalist, white supremacist, male supremacist, and heteronormative cultures. Crosslisted: Africana Studies, Religion Prerequisite(s): 200-level Humanities course, or instructor consent Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H319B Black Queer Saints: Sex, Gender, Race, Class and the Quest for Liberation (1 Unit)
Drawing on fiction, biography, critical theory, film, essays, and memoirs, participants will explore how certain African American artists, activists, and religionists have resisted, represented, and reinterpreted sex, sexuality, and gender norms in the context of capitalist, white supremacist, male supremacist, and heteronormative cultures. Crosslisted: Africana Studies, Religion Prerequisite(s): 200-level Humanities course, or instructor consent Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H321 Blackness in Islam: Race, Slavery and Gender in Early Muslim Culture (1 Unit)
This course uses medieval Arabic prose and poetry – most of them with English translations – as well as contemporary academic literature to introduce students to the intricate and embattled histories of Blackness in classical Islam. While our understanding of B/blackness in the Euro-American context is heavily determined by the constraining experience of the trans-Atlantic slave trade, notions of B/blackness and ideas of anti-racism also exhibit a wider and richer genealogy if we shift our attention to the wider Indian Ocean world that encompasses Africa, Arabia, Persia, and Asia. Pre-requisite(s): One course in Religion, Anthropology, Arabic or Middle Eastern Studies, or permission of the instructor Enrollment Limit: none
RELG H321A Blackness in Islam: Race, Slavery and Gender in Early Muslim Culture (1 Unit)
This course uses medieval Arabic prose and poetry – most of them with English translations – as well as contemporary academic literature to introduce students to the intricate and embattled histories of Blackness in classical Islam. While our understanding of B/blackness in the Euro-American context is heavily determined by the constraining experience of the trans-Atlantic slave trade, notions of B/blackness and ideas of anti-racism also exhibit a wider and richer genealogy if we shift our attention to the wider Indian Ocean world that encompasses Africa, Arabia, Persia, and Asia. Pre-requisite(s): One course in Religion, Anthropology, Arabic or Middle Eastern Studies, or permission of the instructor Enrollment Limit: none
RELG H321B Blackness in Islam: Race, Slavery and Gender in Early Muslim Culture (1 Unit)
This course uses medieval Arabic prose and poetry – most of them with English translations – as well as contemporary academic literature to introduce students to the intricate and embattled histories of Blackness in classical Islam. While our understanding of B/blackness in the Euro-American context is heavily determined by the constraining experience of the trans-Atlantic slave trade, notions of B/blackness and ideas of anti-racism also exhibit a wider and richer genealogy if we shift our attention to the wider Indian Ocean world that encompasses Africa, Arabia, Persia, and Asia. Pre-requisite(s): One course in Religion, Anthropology, Arabic or Middle Eastern Studies, or permission of the instructor Enrollment Limit: none
RELG H322 Radical Pacifism (1 Unit)
This seminar explores the development of pacifism or the philosophy of nonviolence, particularly yet not exclusively in the American context, from the middle nineteenth century to the latter part of the twentieth century. Students will consider different articulations of pacifism and nonviolent direct action and the social-historical context in which modern pacifism emerged, focusing on movements for racial justice, gender liberation, economic justice, and against nationalism. Enrollment Limit: 25.00
RELG H322A Radical Pacifism (1 Unit)
This seminar explores the development of pacifism or the philosophy of nonviolence, particularly yet not exclusively in the American context, from the middle nineteenth century to the latter part of the twentieth century. Students will consider different articulations of pacifism and nonviolent direct action and the social-historical context in which modern pacifism emerged, focusing on movements for racial justice, gender liberation, economic justice, and against nationalism. Enrollment Limit: 25.00
RELG H322B Radical Pacifism (1 Unit)
This seminar explores the development of pacifism or the philosophy of nonviolence, particularly yet not exclusively in the American context, from the middle nineteenth century to the latter part of the twentieth century. Students will consider different articulations of pacifism and nonviolent direct action and the social-historical context in which modern pacifism emerged, focusing on movements for racial justice, gender liberation, economic justice, and against nationalism. Enrollment Limit: 25.00
RELG H325 Religion, Emotion, and Global Cinema (1 Unit)
Are emotions the raw materials of religion? Do our emotions & our modalities of being religious change across cultures or in history? How has globalization transformed the way religion feels to us, and can we see this transformation expressed in globalized images? This course examines theoretical work on religion and emotion to illuminate these questions, taking global cinema--films produced in the global age that image the interconnectivity of religious bodies--as a case study.
RELG H325B Religion, Emotion, and Global Cinema (1 Unit)
Are emotions the raw materials of religion? Do our emotions & our modalities of being religious change across cultures or in history? How has globalization transformed the way religion feels to us, and can we see this transformation expressed in globalized images? This course examines theoretical work on religion and emotion to illuminate these questions, taking global cinema--films produced in the global age that image the interconnectivity of religious bodies--as a case study.
RELG H329 Hamdani: Co-spiration of the Sacred and the Satirical (1 Unit)
This course builds on a fourteenth-century Uyghur text titled The Contest of the Fruits – a rap battle-style put-down between different fruits – to explore the role of humour and satire in helping us think through notions of the sacred. Cross Listed: Anthropology; Comparative Literature Prerequisite(s): At least two 200-level courses in any of the following areas: religion, anthropology, sociology, classics, linguistics, literature (regardless of language), and philosophy. Students with previous engagements with the Hurford Center or with a strong interest in arts, religion, and philosophy are especially encouraged to enroll. In addition, it is highly desirable that students who enroll in this course have significant knowledge of a non-English language so they can draw from other traditions of humour. For this reason, it is recommended that students whose primary language is English have at least two years of continuous study of a non-English language or its equivalent; native [and heritage] speakers of a non-English language may be assumed to meet this recommendation. Those students unsure of their qualification should email Prof. Ha (gha@haverford.edu) for a consultation session. Enrollment Limit: 15 Lottery Preference(s): Religion majors and minors
RELG H329B Hamdani: Co-spiration of the Sacred and the Satirical (1 Unit)
This course builds on a fourteenth-century Uyghur text titled The Contest of the Fruits – a rap battle-style put-down between different fruits – to explore the role of humour and satire in helping us think through notions of the sacred. Cross Listed: Anthropology; Comparative Literature Prerequisite(s): At least two 200-level courses in any of the following areas: religion, anthropology, sociology, classics, linguistics, literature (regardless of language), and philosophy. Students with previous engagements with the Hurford Center or with a strong interest in arts, religion, and philosophy are especially encouraged to enroll. In addition, it is highly desirable that students who enroll in this course have significant knowledge of a non-English language so they can draw from other traditions of humour. For this reason, it is recommended that students whose primary language is English have at least two years of continuous study of a non-English language or its equivalent; native [and heritage] speakers of a non-English language may be assumed to meet this recommendation. Those students unsure of their qualification should email Prof. Ha (gha@haverford.edu) for a consultation session. Enrollment Limit: 15 Lottery Preference(s): Religion majors and minors
RELG H330A Seminar in the Writings of Women of African Descent (1 Unit)
This seminar will examine the writings of women of African descent from Africa, North America, and the Caribbean. Using primary and secondary texts from the nineteenth to the twentieth centuries, this course will explore the various religious traditions, denominations, sects, and religious and cultural movements in which women of African descent have historically participated. The course will also analyze the ways in which specific social conditions and cultural practices have historically influenced the lives of these women within their specific geographical contexts.
RELG H330B Seminar in the Writings of Women of African Descent (1 Unit)
This seminar will examine the writings of women of African descent from Africa, North America, and the Caribbean. Using primary and secondary texts from the nineteenth to the twentieth centuries, this course will explore the various religious traditions, denominations, sects, and religious and cultural movements in which women of African descent have historically participated. The course will also analyze the ways in which specific social conditions and cultural practices have historically influenced the lives of these women within their specific geographical contexts.
RELG H331 Theoretical Approaches to the Study of Black Religion (1 Unit)
Theoretical approaches to the study of black religiosity throughout the African diaspora and consideration of how questions regarding black religiosity shaped the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H331B Theoretical Approaches to the Study of Black Religion (1 Unit)
Theoretical approaches to the study of black religiosity throughout the African diaspora and consideration of how questions regarding black religiosity shaped the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Enrollment Limit: 25
RELG H343 Seminar in Religions in Late Antiquity (1 Unit)
This seminar will focus on the historical origins and origin myths of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam from within the cultural matrix of late ancient Greco-Roman, Byzantine, and Persian imperial socio-politics. We will stress the interrelationships of these religions as they develop between the 1st to 8th centuries CE. Prerequisites: one course in Religion or Classics. Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H343A Seminar in Religions in Late Antiquity (1 Unit)
This seminar will focus on the historical origins and origin myths of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam from within the cultural matrix of late ancient Greco-Roman, Byzantine, and Persian imperial socio-politics. We will stress the interrelationships of these religions as they develop between the 1st to 8th centuries CE. Prerequisites: one course in Religion or Classics. Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H343B Seminar in Religions in Late Antiquity (1 Unit)
This seminar will focus on the historical origins and origin myths of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam from within the cultural matrix of late ancient Greco-Roman, Byzantine, and Persian imperial socio-politics. We will stress the interrelationships of these religions as they develop between the 1st to 8th centuries CE. Prerequisites: one course in Religion or Classics. Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H345 Seminar in the History of Christianity (1 Unit)
RELG H345A Seminar in the History of Christianity (1 Unit)
RELG H347 Souls of Black Folk (1 Unit)
Examination of W. E. B. Du Bois's classic work and its impact on the study of Religion. Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H347B Souls of Black Folk (1 Unit)
Examination of W. E. B. Du Bois's classic work and its impact on the study of Religion. Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H350 Philosophy of Religion (1 Unit)
An exploration of contemporary philosophical approaches to religion and the study of religion in the Continental tradition. Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H350B Philosophy of Religion (1 Unit)
An exploration of contemporary philosophical approaches to religion and the study of religion in the Continental tradition. Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H353 Seminar in Islamic Philosophy and Theology: The Politics of Hidden Knowledge (1 Unit)
An examination of various modalities of hidden knowledge and their social implications. Examples derive mostly from the premodern period.
RELG H353B Seminar in Islamic Philosophy and Theology: The Politics of Hidden Knowledge (1 Unit)
An examination of various modalities of hidden knowledge and their social implications. Examples derive mostly from the premodern period.
RELG H360A Seminar in Modern Christian Thought: Blake's Religion in Word & Image (1 Unit)
An exploration of William Blake's religious imagination as expressed in the poetry & engravings of the "Illuminated Books," with special emphasis on "Songs of Innocence & Experience," "All Religions are One," "There is No Natural Religion," "The Marriage of Heaven & Hell, " " The Book of Urizon," " The Four Zoas" (not engraved) and "Milton a Poem." Our initial guiding question will be: What is the distinctive character of Blake's religious vision and how is it shaped by the interaction of word & image? We will also seek to situate Blake's religious imagination within the English tradition of Protestant religious dissent as well as in the context of Blake's own life as poet, engraver, and painter.
RELG H360B Seminar in Modern Christian Thought: Blake's Religion in Word & Image (1 Unit)
An exploration of William Blake's religious imagination as expressed in the poetry & engravings of the "Illuminated Books," with special emphasis on "Songs of Innocence & Experience," "All Religions are One," "There is No Natural Religion," "The Marriage of Heaven & Hell, " " The Book of Urizon," " The Four Zoas" (not engraved) and "Milton a Poem." Our initial guiding question will be: What is the distinctive character of Blake's religious vision and how is it shaped by the interaction of word & image? We will also seek to situate Blake's religious imagination within the English tradition of Protestant religious dissent as well as in the context of Blake's own life as poet, engraver, and painter.
RELG H361 Hindus and Muslims in South Asia (1 Unit)
Examines engagements between Hindus and Muslims in South Asia from medieval to modern times, through an exploration of historical and literary texts, film and art, and theoretical writings on religious identities. Introduces historical case studies of Hindu-Muslim relations, the formation of religious identities, and the ways in which these identities have been constructed and contested in modern discourses on religion and politics. Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H361A Hindus and Muslims in South Asia (1 Unit)
Examines engagements between Hindus and Muslims in South Asia from medieval to modern times, through an exploration of historical and literary texts, film and art, and theoretical writings on religious identities. Introduces historical case studies of Hindu-Muslim relations, the formation of religious identities, and the ways in which these identities have been constructed and contested in modern discourses on religion and politics. Enrollment Limit: 15
RELG H370A Advanced Topics in Buddhist Studies (1 Unit)
Advanced course on a topic chosen annually by instructor. The purpose of this course is to give students with a basic background in Buddhist Studies deeper conversancy with a particular textual, thematic, or practice tradition in the history of Buddhism. Prerequisite: EAST 201 or PHIL 242 or permission.
RELG H370B Topics in Buddhist Studies (1 Unit)
Advanced course on a topic chosen annually by instructor. The purpose of this course is to give students with a basic background in Buddhist Studies deeper conversancy with a particular textual, thematic, or practice tradition in the history of Buddhism.
RELG H398A Senior Thesis Seminar Part 1 (1 Unit)
A practical methodology course which prepares senior Religion majors to write their senior theses. Enrollment Limit: 25 Lottery Preference(s): Open to Senior Religion majors only
RELG H399B Senior Seminar and Thesis (1 Unit)
Senior Thesis Enrollment Limit: 25 Lottery Preference(s): Open only to Senior Religion Majors
RELG H460A Teaching Assistant (1 Unit)
Teaching Assistant Enrollment Limit: 5
RELG H460B Teaching Assistant (1 Unit)
Teaching Assistant Enrollment Limit: 5
RELG H480A Independent Study (1 Unit)
Independent Study Enrollment Limit: 5