Module THEO46730: Classical Franciscan Theology

Department: Theology and Religion

THEO46730: Classical Franciscan Theology

Prerequisites

• None.

Corequisites

• None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None.

Aims

• To familiarize students with key themes and figures in Franciscan theology.
• Through engagement with relevant primary sources to understand the contribution made by key Franciscan thinkers to the development of a Franciscan intellectual tradition and to the broader Christian theological tradition, across a range of doctrinal themes.

Content

• This module will enable an in-depth study of key contributions to the Franciscan tradition and to Christian doctrine made by a range of significant Franciscan thinkers. Through an in-depth engagement with the relevant primary sources, students will become familiar with innovative and distinctive contributions of important Franciscan theologians. There will be a focus on between three and five specific theological areas or themes.

Learning Outcomes

• A systematic understanding of key aspects of the thinking of designated Franciscan theologians, through exposure to primary texts and engagement with relevant secondary literature.
• A critical evaluation of the achievements and limitations of the Franciscan theologians examined in light of contemporary theological concerns and issues.

• An ability to read, interpret and evaluate critically the thought of Franciscan theologians on the basis of primary and secondary sources.

• Development of analytical insight, the ability to engage critically with philosophical and theological arguments.
• Ability to grasp, summarize, and critically evaluate concepts, arguments and knowledge in written form.

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

• Seminars enhance subject-specific knowledge and understanding through engagement with primary texts, promoting awareness of different approaches and hermeneutical perspectives, improving skills in the analysis of texts, concepts and arguments.
• The summative essay assesses subject-specific knowledge and understanding by engaging carefully with primary texts and secondary literature.
• The formative presentation enables students to summarise, evaluate, and present key topics from the thought of the early Franciscan theologians.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Students will be asked to give oral presentations of about 15-20 minutes.

■ 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