JWM5010

Reading Jewish Texts: From Antiquity to Modernity (12 points)

(ARTS)

Leader: Nathan Wolski, Michael Fagenblat and Paul Forgasz

Offered:
Clayton First semester 2004 (Day)
Clayton First semester 2005 (Day)

Synopsis:

Objectives: On successful completion of this subject students will be expected to demonstrate an ability to: 1. Understand and explain the different hermeneutic practices present in the Jewish tradition. 2. Demonstrate a familiarity with the different genres of classical Jewish literature. 3. Read and analyse selected texts from the Jewish tradition. 4. Apply the reading and interpretative skills they have learned to unseen texts. 5. Appreciate the exegetical horizons facing contemporary readers of scripture. 6. Appreciate the continuities and ruptures between classical, medieval and modern interpretative practices. Students successfully completing JWM5010 will be expected to demonstrate, in addition: 7. Advanced skills in analysing primary sources and in developing an independent position regarding the meaning and significance of these sources.

Assessment: Research paper (6000 words): 60% + Seminar paper (1000 words): 10% + Comparative analysis of two interpretive approaches to a biblical text (2000 words): 20% + Seminar preparation and participation: 10%

Contact Hours: A weekly one hour lecture followed by a 90 minute seminar