Course - Religions of the Past - RVI1020
Religions of the Past
About
About the course
Course content
The course provides a basic survey of some of the early religious traditions that do not belong to "world religions". Norse religion is emphasized, but also certain Indo-European traditions are included, such as Iranian (Persian), Greek, and Roman religion as well as religious traditions of the Middle East, such as the religions of Mesopotamia and Egypt. The course aim is to provide the student with an insight into these historical traditions and their academic study. The impact of these traditions on todays religious traditions will also be examined. An emphasis is placed on the reading of original texts from the various traditions in translation, and the course therefore also includes methodical issues regarding sources and the critical evaluation of sources.
Learning outcome
The course will provide a basic survey of some of the early religious traditions not belonging to world religions. Norse religion is emphasized.
The course aim is to provide the student with an insight into these historical traditions and their academic study. This also includes knowledge of sources and issues related to criticism of the sources.
For more information about the assessment, we refer students to the section's description of the grading scale. The description of the grading scale is found on the department's web pages and in hard copy.
Learning methods and activities
The instruction consists of lectures.
Required previous knowledge
None.
Course materials
The required reading list will be available at the beginning of the semester. Students are not allowed to consult any text-books during the 6 hours exam.
Subject areas
- Comparative Religion