Humanities Arts Cultural Stu 0161 - The English Bible

The Bible is the foundational book of Western civilization and a classic of world literature. Biblical stories form the bedrock of the scriptural traditions of Christians and Jews, and in a different form, of Muslims as well. Biblical literature has also been foundational to Western art and literature from the medieval period to the present day. For many in the English-speaking world, including poets and artists, the most influential translation of the Bible has been the Authorized Version of 1611, otherwise known as the King James Version, together with its more recent descendants. The main objective of this course is to offer students from a range of backgrounds and with a wide array of academic interests an extended opportunity to familiarize themselves with the most influential books of the Bible as they have been rendered in the tradition of the King James Version. While approaching the Bible primarily from a literary standpoint, we will also consider relevant historical, theological, and moral considerations prompted by this literature, as time permits. Our general approach will be respectful and critical both.

Culture, Humanities, and Languages Independent Work Multiple Cultural Perspectives Writing and Research Students are expected to spend 8 hours weekly on work and preparation outside of class time.