Course Description
The relationship between women and Christianity, particularly concerning matters involving gender equality in church and society.
Additional Requirements for Graduate Students:
Additional readings and a research paper along with more extensive examinations to reflect the additional responsibilities.
Athena Title
WOMEN CHRISTN HIST
Prerequisite
Junior or senior standing or permission of department
Semester Course Offered
Offered every odd-numbered year.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
1) examining the liberative and oppressive elements of religion in society and religious organizations; 2) identifying women leaders and organizers across the history of Christianity; 3) identifying movements, groups, and denominations founded by women; 4) understanding the diversity of women in Christianity, particularly regarding race, ethnicity, class, ideology, and religious affiliation; 5) examining the development of anti-female oriented language and theology in Christianity; 6) comprehending the manner in which some women and men have theologically and ecclesiastically encouraged and challenged the churches to become more gender inclusive and liberative; 7) gaining a better understanding of the nature, development, and interpretation of Scripture and Christian history by examining issues and concerns related to gender. Communicate Effectively through Writing To strengthen skills in written composition, analysis, and presentation by means of projects such as essays, papers, reports, and examinations. Communicate Effectively through Speech To strengthen skills in oral expression, analysis, style, and interaction by means such as class reports, class discussion, and oral examinations. Computer Literacy To enhance and facilitate computer literacy by the use of word processing, the web, email, and OASIS through research, preparation, and presentation of work such as oral class reports and completion of written assignments. Critical Thinking To foster critical thinking by engaging in activities such as classroom discussion and debate, essay examinations, and oral presentations. Moral Reasoning (Ethics) To assist in the continued development of moral and ethical reasoning and reflection by encouraging creative thinking regarding individual and community concerns and needs, the challenging of prejudices and stereotypes, and examining rational and ethical bases of constructive social interactions.
Topical Outline
I. Introduction: The Course, Its Philosophy and Methodology II. Introduction: Academic Study of Religion/Biblical Criticism III. The Bible and Women: Selected Readings from the Old Testament/Hebrew Bible IV. The Bible and Women: Selected New Testament Passages V. Women in the Early Church, ca. 100-500 CE. VI. Women Christians in Medieval Europe, ca. 500 - 1500 VII. Women in Reformation and Early Modern Ages, ca. 1500 - 1850 VIII. Women in American Religious History IX. Conclusion
Syllabus