HSY2480/HSY3480

The religious quest: Eastern faith and illumination

Ian Mabbett

8 points
* Two lectures and one tutorial per week
* Second semester
* Clayton
* Prohibitions: HSY2470/HSY3470 1992 or previously

Objectives The intention of this subject is to cultivate familiarity with the character of the texts which constitute sources for the historical study of Asian religions, with some of the problems of interpretation raised by these texts, and with the answers given by the traditions studied to perennial questions of religion.

Synopsis The subject is designed to introduce students to the study of religion, looking at the main religious traditions of Asia in turn, tracing their evolution, and relating each to the cultural environment in which it grew. Certain basic questions are taken as themes to apply to each section of the subject: for example, what have the different religions said about fundamental questions such as the problem of suffering, the existence of an afterlife and the existence of God or gods? The concern in this semester will be with eastern religions, with special attention to Taoist mysticism, the Hindu way of life, yoga and salvation, and the Buddhist teaching.

Assessment Short essay and long essay (total 4000 words): 50%
* Examination (2 hours): 50%

Prescribed texts

Carmody D L and Carmody J T Stories of Eastern religions Mayfield, 1992
Hinnells J R (ed.) A handbook of living religions Penguin
Ling T O A history of religion East and West Harper and Row

Recommended texts

Eastman R (ed.) The ways of religion OUP, 1993