Monash University Handbook 2010 Postgraduate - Unit

Synopsis

This unit examines the intellectual interaction between Judaism, Christianity and Islam in the medieval period. Focusing mainly on the late twelfth and thirteenth century, the unit revolves around a central religious fault line of the era- reason and rationalism on the one hand, and the mystical quest on the other - and pursues a comparative analysis of the major figures from each of the traditions. Beginning with the rationalists, the course explores the thought of Ibn Rushd, Maimonides and Thomas Aquinas, before moving to a comparative examination of various mystics, such as - Bernard of Clairvaux, Bonaventure, the Zohar, Meister Eckhart, Ibn al-Arabi and Rumi.

Objectives

On completion of this unit students will be expected to:

1. have an understanding of the major intellectual currents within Judaism, Christianity and Islam in the twelfth and thirteenth centuries;
2. have an understanding of the relationship between and mutual influences informing the various traditions;
3. understand the role of classical thinkers and writers on the varied traditions;
4. demonstrate familiarity with the major texts of the key religious figures of the period;
5. appreciate the exegetical horizons facing interpreters of scripture;
6. be able to engage in comparative analysis of philosophers and mystics from the different traditions;
7. have applied the reading and interpretative skills they have learned to unseen texts; and
8. identify continuities and ruptures among the thinkers and writers examined.

Assessment

Research essay (6000 words): 50%; Seminar paper (1000 words): 15%; Take-home exam (2000 words): 25%; Seminar preparation: 10%.

Chief examiner(s)

Nathan Wolski

Contact hours

One 2.5 hour seminar per week

Prohibitions

HSY4260, HYM5260