Module THEO2371: SEERS AND SAGES

Department: Theology and Religion

THEO2371: SEERS AND SAGES

Prerequisites

• None.

Corequisites

• None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None.

Aims

• To explore critically themes of major Early Jewish literature within their theological and historical contexts, and to assess the significance of these writings for early Christian thought and as interpretation of the Old Testament.
• To equip students with skills and knowledge for study of related areas at level 3.
• To equip students with skills and knowledge ancilliary to other modules which they are taking at level 2.

Content

• This module provides a critical exploration of Jewish religious thought in the time of Jesus.
• It will focus on Ben Sirah, Wisdom of Solomon, Psalms of Solomon, 1 Enoch, Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs, 4 Esdras, 2 Baruch, Jubilees and Tobit. Each of these documents, except for 4 Esd. and 2 Bar., which are treated together, will be explored in two lectures and one seminar.
• The students will study wisdom literature, apocalyptic literature, testamental literature, and the rewriting of scriptural tradition.
• The module will stress that although one can speak of different forms of expression, ideas expressed within the literature show that stereotypical caricatures of Early Judaism often break down when subjected to scrutiny.

Learning Outcomes

• A knowledge of the individual documents surveyed on the course.
• A knowledge of the underlying concepts and principles associated with the study of early Jewish literature, and an ability to evaluate and interpret these within the context of that area of study.

• Skills in the comparative analysis of ancient texts and the application of traditional and contemporary methods of study.

• Skills in the acquisition of information through reading and research, and in the structured presentation of information in written form.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Lectures convey information and exemplify an approach to the subject-matter, enabling students to develop a clear understanding of the subject and to improve their skills in listening and in evaluating information.
• Seminars enhance subject-specific knowledge and understanding both through preparation and through interaction with students and staff, promoting awareness of different viewpoints and approaches.
• Through small-group discussion, tutorials provide feedback on student work and the opportunity to discuss specific issues in detail, enhancing student knowledge and writing skills.
• Examinations assess subject-specific knowledge and understanding, along with student skills in the structured presentation of information in written form under time constraints.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Student presentations in the seminars. These will be based on passages from the set texts, which the students will be expected to analyse in written and oral presentations.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University