Course content

The course provides a basic survey of some of the early religious traditions that do not belong to "world religions": Norse religion, Indo-European traditions (Iranian/Persian, Greek and Roman) and religious traditions of the Middle East (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 today's 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

According to the course curriculum, a candidate who passes this course is expected to have the following learning outcome (defined as knowledge, skills and general competence)

Knowledge

The candidate has attained

• a basic survey of some of the early religious traditions
• basic insight into the impact of these religious traditions on present religious traditions
• basic knowledge of central texts and other sources regarding these traditions

Skills

The candidate has acquired skills to

• analyse and apply central sources of some of the early religious traditions
• account for the significance these religious traditions have on the understanding of subsequent religions
• exert good scientific practice regarding sources and references

General competence

The candidate has

• basic insight into the study of a selection of the religions of the past which provides a basis for more specialized further study
• experience in planning and executing a written essay with a defined length

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.