JWST 320 - Studies in Sacred Texts

Semester Offered: Spring
1 unit(s)

(Same as RELI 320) Examination of selected themes and texts in sacred literature.

May be taken more than once when content changes.

Topic for 2014/15b: Enslavement and Liberation: The Book of Exodus. The Book of Exodus is one of the most fascinating and challenging books of the Bible-replete with psychological tension, narrative drama and compelling characterizations. We explore the text in multiple translations, along with commentaries-both traditional and contemporary-of Jewish, Christian and Muslim authors, artists, and adaptors, ranging from the literary and the poetic, to the historical and political, and the mystical and artistic. The use of Exodus as a metaphor in liberation movements, as well as its evocation in liturgy-both the Passover Seder and the rite of the Eucharist-for example, also is explored. Mr. Epstein.

Prerequisites: one 100- or 200-level religion course, or permission of the instructor.