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
According to the course curriculum, a candidate who passes this course is expected to have the following learning outcome (defined as knowledge and skills)
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
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.
Subject areas
- Comparative Religion
Contact information
Course coordinator
- Asbjørn Dyrendal