Introduces students to the religions of the world with attention to origin, history, and doctrine. Focuses on the development of systems of faith in various human cultures, with a concentration on the rise of the monotheistic faiths and the distinction between primal or “oral” religions and “historical” religions. Introduces the academic study of religion, issues of faith, and specific world religions. Examines the historical evolution, the fundamental doctrines and beliefs, the practices, institutions, and cultural expressions of these religious traditions. Also deals with some of the essential differences and similarities that exist among each religious tradition, and points to the uniqueness of each of them. Lecture 3 hours per week.

REL 233 Introduction to Islam (3 cr.)

Examines Islam in its historical, religious, and political dimensions and assists in the understanding of its contemporary vitality and attraction as a faith, a culture and a way of life. Lecture 3 hours.  Total Contact: 3 hours per week

Examines selected problems and issues of current interest in religion. Investigates how the Western film industry has depicted Christianity, the Bible, and the critical themes of Christian thought.  Prerequisite: ENG 111. Lecture 3 hours per week.

Introduces students to the portrayal of women in the Bible. Examines, through selected Biblical texts, the role and depiction of women within this text. Studies the impact of scriptural writing on the role of women in the Western world through the lens of feminist scholars. Students are asked to think critically about the texts, the issues raised by feminist perspectives, and to analyze the impact of the Bible on women today and society as a whole. Prerequisites: English 111 and all Developmental Reading prerequisites or corequisites. Lecture: 3 hours per week.

02.17.08