RELS - Religious Studies
RELS408 Capstone Seminar for Religions of the Ancient Middle East (3 Credits)
A capstone seminar for majors in Religions of the Ancient Middle East, designed to provide the intellectual framework for a substantial, interdisciplinary research project. Course topics will be thematic and students will be encouraged to explore comparative or interdisciplinary approaches.
Repeatable to: 6 credits if content differs.
RELS419 Advanced Topics in Religious Studies (3 Credits)
The contemporary study of religion in which topics may address specific religious traditions, regional or historical developments, or methodological and theoretical issues.
Recommended: RELS216.
Repeatable to: 9 credits if content differs.
RELS427 The Epic of Gilgamesh (3 Credits)
One of the most famous tales from the ancient world, the Epic of Gilgamesh inspires readers with tales of friendship and loss, mortality, and the search for meaning. The story itself grew and changed over time and took on new meanings. Through study of the epic, its development over time, and the sources it drew from, this class will examine the meaning of the Gilgamesh epic and its impact on ancient Mesopotamian culture.
Prerequisite: JWST225, RELS225, HIST219I, or permission of the instructor.
Recommended: JWST262, ENGL262, or HEBR298B.
Cross-listed with: JWST427.
Credit Only Granted for: JWST419G, RELS419G, RELS427 or JWST427.
Formerly: JWST419G.
RELS429 Advanced Topics in Religious History (3 Credits)
Advanced study of religious history in a particular setting, with attention to particular themes, texts, events, or communities.
Recommended: RELS216 or RELS289.
Repeatable to: 9 credits if content differs.
RELS430 Dead Sea Scrolls (3 Credits)
A study of the Dead Sea Scrolls in their ancient and modern settings, and in terms of contemporary scholarly interpretations of their meaning. Interpretations of the historical significance of these documents, their connections to ancient Jewish sectarian movements, and their implications for our understanding of Judaism, Christianity, and the history of the Bible.
Prerequisite: Must have completed one JWST course or one RELS course; or permission of ARHU-Meyerhoff Program & Center for Jewish Studies. Cross-listed with JWST430.
RELS439 Advanced Topics in Religious Thought (3 Credits)
Advanced study of religious thought in a particular setting, with attention to particular themes, texts, events, or communities.
Recommended: RELS216 or RELS289.
Repeatable to: 9 credits if content differs.
RELS488 Honors Thesis Research in Religions of the Ancient Middle East (3 Credits)
Guided research on a thesis under the supervision of a faculty mentor.
Repeatable to: 6 credits if content differs.
RELS499 Independent Study in Religious Studies (1-3 Credits)
An advanced independent research project for qualified students, supervised by a faculty member, on a topic not ordinarily covered in available courses.
Prerequisite: Permission of ARHU-Meyerhoff Program & Center for Jewish Studies.
Repeatable to: 6 credits if content differs.
RELS600 Methods and Theories in the Study of Religion (3 Credits)
An exploration of scholarly approaches to the study of religion. The modern history of the secular study of religion, social dynamics, textual formations, and ritual practices.Jointly offered with RELS400.
Credit Only Granted for: RELS400, RELS419 T, RELS600, or RELS619T.
Formerly: RELS619T.
RELS619 Directed Readings in Religous Studies (3 Credits)
Individual Instruction course.
Repeatable to: 6 credits if content differs.