RST-341-20, Theology of the Body, SP13
INSTRUCTOR: Sharon Kanis, SSND
SCHEDULE/DAY/TIME: T-1/Wednesday/6-8:45 p.m.
An exploration of the meaning of life lived in a human body. The study of body theology is a relatively new and rich academic area in religious studies. In response to U.S. culture, which is inundated with images and interpretations of the human body, particularly the female body, this course will address biblical, theological and ethical considerations of embodiment. Topics include: creation in the image of God, freedom and person, gender and vocation, theobiology and sexuality. Primary attention will be given to the impact of body theology on women’s self-understanding.
1. to explore the historical development of theological interpretations of embodiment and the impact of cultural beliefs and practices related to gender construction.
2. to examine the impact of embodiment theology on women’s (and men’s) self-understanding.
3. to examine contemporary body theology through the work of several theologians including John Paul II, Susan Cahill and James Nelson.
4. to determine one’s own body theology.
1. dialogue involving class members in sharing personal experiences, research, assigned readings and activities
2. attendance and active participation in each class
3. small and large group discussions
4. appropriate media resources
REQUIREMENTS AND ASSIGNMENTS:
1. participation related to assigned readings and media assignments (20%)
2. short papers/integration paper (40%)
3. final project: research (40%)
REQUIRED TEXT(S) OR MATERIALS:
-Kieran Scott and Harold Daly Horell, (eds) Human Sexuality in the Catholic Tradition. (Anselm Press, 2007.) ISBN 13:978-0-7425-5241
-Barger, Lilian Calles, Eve’s Revenge: Women and a Spirituality of the Body. (Brazos Press, 2003.) ISBN 1-58743-040-1
-Selected articles available in class or online at LNDL.org
READINGS AND/OR ASSIGNMENTS TO BE DONE PRIOR TO THE FIRST CLASS:
Be prepared to discuss images of women, men and children as you experience them in U.S. culture: media, magazines, TV, movies, online, etc. come with prepared notes.