Course Description

Through readings, discussion, and some lectures, this writing-intensive, introductory course intends to explore the literature of the early Christian movement. Our study will progress in two stages: 1) an investigation of the cultural and religious contexts out of which Christianity developed; and 2) a selective survey of the New Testament literature itself with an emphasis on the diversity of the religious perspectives it reflects. To this end we will not only be reading books contained in the New Testament canon, but also some non-canonical Christian texts from the first and second centuries.

Students need to understand from the outset that this course is not about theological truth, nor is it about contemporary Christian faith. That is, our concern is not the "right way" that Christians today should think about God or Jesus Christ. This course is about the literature written by the very first people who considered themselves to be Christians, and the diversity of beliefs and ideas they held.

Objectives

1. Become biblically literate by learning the general content, historical framework, and literary forms of New Testament.
2. Develop skills in the critical reading and interpretation of New Testament passages and of ancient literature in general.
3. Create, satisfy, and perpetuate curiosity for biblical learning.

Contact Info

Course:  English 271 (Fall 2006)
Section:  001 (02393)
Meeting times:  MWF 9:00-9:50 a.m.
Classroom:  FB B13

Instructor:  Anthony Ubelhor
Office:  1322 Patterson Office Tower
Office Hours:  MW, 1:45-2:45 p.m, 4:45-5:15 p.m. (or by appointment)
Phone:  (859) 257-6993 or (859) 257-7008
E-mail:  Anthony.Ubelhor@uky.edu
Home page:  http://ubelhor.home.mindspring.com/