Fall Semester 2005
Orthodox Christianity: History and Theology (Klentos) A survey of the history and theology of the Eastern Orthodox Church. Beginning with the Church's Byzantine roots, the course will sketch the development of Orthodox Christianity from its imperial phase and missionary efforts, through the dark years of decline and oppression, up to its present life in the western world and recent reemergence in Eastern-bloc countries. Throughout this course, theological investigation will include historical inquiry. Evaluation will be based on class discussion, two brief presentations and two written assignments.
Liturgical Methods Proseminar (Klentos) Methods and questions surrounding Liturgical Studies, leading to integration of historical approaches, theological inquiry with the recent disciplines of ritology and ethnoliturgiology. Evaluation will be based on participation in seminar discussion, in-class presentations, and a final synthesis paper. (Auditors excluded)
Patristic Exegesis of Scripture (Constantinou) This course will examine the primary issues, methods and techniques used by early Christian biblical interpreters. Attention will be given to the practical philosophical approaches of the primary "schools" of thought, leading to a study of individual exegetes, both Eastern and Western Fathers, and how they exemplified various approaches. We will investigate the strengths and limitations of the patristic exegetes and their methods, as well as how the Fathers dealt with difficulties and challenges posed by the biblical text. Special attention will be paid to the books of Genesis, Matthew and the writings of Paul. The objective is not to engage in an abstract analysis of these early interpreters, but to acquire an understanding of exegetes as men of their times, with unique personalities, backgrounds, perspectives, opinions and concerns. The course will require reading assignments, especially from primary sources and writing assignments consisting of three papers and a take home final exam. This course will meet Sept. 9 & 10, Oct. 7 & 8, Nov. 4 & 5, and Dec. 2 & 3. Fridays are from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Saturdays are from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the PAOI.
Spring Semester 2006
Orthodox Christian Spirituality (Vrame) A general introduction to the broad themes of and major figures in Eastern Christian spiritual traditions. Working almost exclusively with primary texts (in English translation), students will encounter a wide range of traditions (Syrian, Greek, Armenian, and Slavic) from the second century to the present day. Format is seminar. Evaluation will be based on one in-class presentation and a final synthesis paper.
Church in Orthodox Christian Thought (Klentos) This course will use the "Church" as a way of exploring aspects of Orthodox Christian theology, its traditions, and place in the ecumenical/multi-cultural world. Through close study of modern texts, the class will investigate issues of salvation, personal identity, sanctity, and ethical-pastoral questions. Attention will be given to issues of the Orthodox Church in diaspora, especially in the USA. Format will combine lecture with seminar discussion. Evaluation based on two in-class presentations and two written assignments.
Eastern Christian Liturgies (Klentos) This course will introduce students to the fundemental elements of Eastern Christian worship. The survey will treat the distinct spirit of Eastern worship, the origins and development of the seven extant Eastern rites, and the physical settings and objects used by the traditions. The course will deal in detail with the most widely used Eastern service, the Byzantine eucharistic liturgy. The course will combine lecture and seminar discussion. Evaluation will be based on two in-class presentations and two written assignments.
The Byzantine Monastery (Thomas) A survey of the institutions of Byzantine monasticism, including founders, patrons, monastic rules, organization, leadership, liturgy, finances, and architecture from late antiquity to the 15th century. Lecture and seminar format. Evaluation on participation, in-class presentations, final synthesis.
Gender in Greek Patristic Thought (Karras) This course will provide students with the opportunity to explore Greek patristic anthropology with respect to the ontology of gender and related issues concerning the body. Students will examine and evaluate early Eastern church views in this area through primary sources and through secondary sources employing varying methodological approaches to the primary material. As a result, students should be able to understand the stages of Eastern Christian theological anthropology and their unique characteristics, especially with respect to sexual differentiation and gender. Each student will be required to write two five page reviews/critiques of readings for the course, to be assigned at the first class session. Students will be required to write a 15-20 page research paper on a topic related to the course material. This course will meet Jan. 27 & 28, Feb. 24 & 25, March 17 & 18, and April 28 & 29. Friday sessions are 3:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Saturday sessions are 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. at the PAOI.
