RLT1010

Christian life and culture I

A Cooper

6 points - 3 hours per week - First semester - Clayton

Objectives Students who successfully complete this subject should have gained a basic knowledge and appreciation of the historical circumstances of some of the great Christian writers and literature of period from the beginnings of Christianity to the medieval period; an understanding of the social conditions which shaped these texts and authors; the capacity of analysing the distinct theological and spiritual traditions exemplified in the variety of works studied; a critical appreciation of the legacy of these works; the critical and analytical skills needed for the satisfying reading and study of Christian classics; research and organisational skills, as well as the capacity to communicate effectively (both verbally and in writing) their learning and understanding.

Synopsis The subject is intended to acquaint the student with some significant examples of Christian literature from the beginnings of the Christian movement to the Middle Ages. The focus will be upon the study of these significant texts in their theological and cultural setting. Students will be required to experience some contemporary expressions of aspects of this subject, eg the Liturgy of the Eastern Christians, largely unfamiliar to most Westerners.

Assessment Introductory assignment (500 words): 10% - Two essays (1000 words each): 50% One report of a liturgical experience (600 words): 10% Written examination (1.5 hours): 30%

Recommended texts

Elder E R The spirituality of western Christendom Kalamazoo, 1976
Louth A The origins of the Christian mystical tradition Oxford, 1981
McGinn B and others (eds) Christian spirituality: Origins to the twelfth century London, 1985
McGinn B The growth of mysticism New York, 1992
Raitt J (ed.) Christian spirituality: High Middle Ages and Reformation New York, 1988

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