REL 273 - Judaism

1. Introduction to Jewish culture
2. Historical overview: major periods of Jewish civilization
3. Ancient antecedents and influences: Near East and Hellenism
4. Diaspora and rabbinic Judaism
5. Medieval period and "Golden Age"--Jewish philosophy and mysticism; interaction with Islam and Christian Europe
6. Early modern period and challenges of emancipation
7. Post-Holocaust issues: religious existentialism, Zionism, and transformation of Jewish identity
8. Judaism as living religion and culture
9. Contemporary challenges: Jewish feminism; assimilation, secularism
10. Interaction and mutual influences
11. Varieties of Judaism
12. Basic aspects of living the Jewish path

1. Explain the development of the varieties of Jewish expression from Near East origins through contemporary times. (1-12)
2. Analyze various periods of Jewish history/religion/culture as part of a broader social, historical, political and religious context. (2-9)
3. Explain the nature of and central tenets of Judaism. (12)
4. Differentiate concepts within their historical contexts. (2-7)
5. Explain how other religious traditions and secular cultures have impacted and influenced Jewish civilization. (10)
6. Demonstrate ability to have an interreligious and intercultural dialog. (1-12)
7. Compare perspectives of other cultures, especially minority cultures. (8-11)
8. Analyze materials from primary and secondary sources and place them in appropriate historical/cultural contexts. (1-12)
9. Analyze disparate ideas by defining and using key terms appropriate to the discipline. (10-12)
10. Assess the characteristics of diverse cultures and traditions. (2-12)

1. Demonstrate thoughtful and precise writing skills by completing a minimum of 2500 words of monitored writing.