Through a close study of both primary and secondary materials on theology, spirituality, and religious history, this course will introduce students to the major forms and institutions of religious thought and practice in medieval, Christian Europe (from Saint Augustine to the scholastics). The course will begin by studying the theological foundations of self and world in the work of Augustine and Pseudo-Dionysius, before turning to an elucidation of central religious institutions such as the papacy (and the political aspects of this authority), the monastery (as an opportunity for spiritual quest), and the university (including the scholastic philosophy and theology to which it gave rise). In our study of the primary texts and their context, we will encounter aspects of mystical thought, as well as the problem of the conflict of faith and reason (science/philosophy and religion). This course includes site visits related to the reading and discussion in class.

Students will will acquire an understanding of key elements in the thinking of several prominent early Christian theologians and mystics, as well as factors in the development and characteristics of the institutions of the papacy, monastery and university.  Students will also acquire improved skills in analytical thought and expression.

Assessment Guidelines for assigning main letter grades: A, B, C,D, and F.

A:  Work of this quality directly addresses the question or problem raised and provides a coherent argument displaying an extensiveknowledge of relevant information or content. This type of work demonstrates the ability to critically evaluate concepts and theory and has an element of novelty and originality. There is clear evidence of a significant amount of reading beyond that required for the course.

B:  This is highly competent level of performance and directly addresses the question or problem raised.

There is a demonstration of some ability to critically evaluatetheory and concepts and relate them to practice. Discussions reflect the student’s own arguments and are not simply a repetition of standard lecture andreference material. The work does not suffer from any major errors or omissions and provides evidence of reading beyond the required assignments.

C:  This is an acceptable level of performance and provides answers that are clear but limited, reflecting the information offered in the lectures and reference readings.

D:  This level of performances demonstrates that the student lacks a coherent grasp of the material.

Important information is omitted and irrelevant points included.In effect, the student has barely done enough to persuade the instructor that s/he should not fail.

F: This work fails to show any knowledge or understanding of the issues raised in the question. Most of the material in the answer is irrelevant.

Preparation for, attendance at, and participation in lectures and site visits are all required and will count toward the student’s final grade.  Students are allowed only two absences; each additional absence will result in a significant reduction in the final grade for the course.  Students with more than five absences will fail the course.  Students arriving in class after attendance has been taken will be counted as absent.  Students who miss class are responsible for getting class notes from another student.