REL 240 - Special Topics

Institution:

Denison University

Subject:

Description:

"Christians and Jews" (REL 240-01) The Blood Libel. "Witch" Burnings. Expulsions. Ghettos. Dress Codes. The Spanish Inquisition. Pogroms. Making Intermarriage Punishable By Death. Child Kidnappings. Forced Baptism. Social Exclusion. Church-approved Theft and Violence. Accusations of Satanism. The Holocaust. Double-Standards Regarding National Sovereignty and Self-Defense. Why has it been so difficult for so many Christians to act like "Christians" when it has come to the Jews? Anti-semitism has dogged the reputation of those who claim to speak in the name of Jesus, the gentle Jew from Nazareth, for about 1,800 years now. Is this "longest hatred" endemic to the Christian Religion, or simply an unfortunate accident of history? How have the centuries of persecution affected Judaism's religious outlook? What are the hopes for authentic reconciliation between these two great traditions? Does this history obligate us to re-examine our own attitudes and actions today? (Only offered Fall 2008) "Sex and Violence in Ancient India: The Mahabharata" (REL 240-02) An epic tale of family betrayal and spiritual struggle, the Mahabharata is one of the most widely read pieces of literature in India. We will explore the Mahabharata as a sacred text and place the events portrayed therein in the broader context of the human search for meaning in life. Why does it seem so difficult, at times, to obtain the simplest of things? Does one's cultural, or historical context alter the search for meaning in ways that are significant? How can I tell that I have truly found peace? (Only offered Fall 2008) (4 Credits)

Credits:

4.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.denison.edu

Phone Number:

(740) 587-0810

Regional Accreditation:

North Central Association of Colleges and Schools

Calendar System:

Semester

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