NES 2644 - [Introduction to Judaism]

(crosslisted)
(also JWST 2644, RELST 2644)(GHB) (HA-AS)

Spring. 3 credits.

Next offered 2014-2015.

L. Monroe.

This course is designed to acquaint students with the varieties of Judaism from ancient times to the early modern period. A strong emphasis will be placed on ancient Jewish civilization, and how ancient structures shaped later religious, social, and political trends. Particular attention will be devoted to moments of continuity and change in ideas and practices in each major phase of their historical development. Students will learn to analyze material evidence and primary texts in translation, to engage with the questions brought to bear on this material by contemporary scholars, and to generate their own critical questions. This course will also explore the ways Judaism and the Jewish people have been understood through various interpretive lenses, including sociology, religious studies, anthropology, musicology, women’s studies, and film studies. Students will be encouraged to think creatively and to engage in experiential and hands-on investigation of particular issues.