WKS 375A - Jesus Christ Superstar and Biblical Studies

Institution:

Antioch University-Midwest (Closed)

Subject:

Description:

The rock-opera Jesus Christ Superstar stands as one of the most controversial, yet successful stage shows in history. While many celebrate its music-or criticize its depiction of Jesus of Nazareth-the lyricist Timothy Rice has produced a libretto that is uniquely complex and nuanced. Using the tools of contemporary biblical studies, one can analyze the lyrics of JCSS to determine the historical accuracies and inaccuracies of the rock-opera. In this workshop, the instructor provides students a basic introduction to foundational aspects of biblical studies and relevant history. Students then watch two versions of JCSS to examine how casting, setting, blocking, and cinematography can produce drastically different interpretations of the same libretto. In many ways, this is the same phenomenon biblical scholars have been examining for years: The authors of Matthew and Luke-Acts provide dramatically variant interpretations of the Gospel of Mark, which they both used as the framework for their own stories.

Credits:

1.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.antioch.edu

Phone Number:

(937) 769-1800

Regional Accreditation:

North Central Association of Colleges and Schools

Calendar System:

Quarter

The Course Profile information is provided and updated by third parties including the respective institutions. While the institutions are able to update their information at any time, the information is not independently validated, and no party associated with this website can accept responsibility for its accuracy.