CONT4405 – Empire and Christianity
Schedule, syllabus and examination date
Course content
The aim of this course is to explore the possible links and connections between early Christianity and Christian commitment to political action in our age in relation to an empire. The course will give tools to theorize the concept of “empire” in the days of early Christianity as well as in our age of globalization. The comparison of empire in the past and in the present will highlight how the description of a historical past is inevitably tied to present human imagination. Applying contemporary approaches and lens on the past will at the same time be problematized in order to develop critical hermeneutical skills when dealing with different historical contexts. It will relate the mission of the churches in relation to contemporary social movements and political issues.
Learning outcome
Through this course, students will have obtained critical insight in the hermeneutical process implied when comparing different historical contexts and its significance for ethical, political and theological conclusions.
Admission
Students who are admitted to study programmes at UiO must each semester register which courses and exams they wish to sign up for in Studentweb.
Students enrolled in other Master's Degree Programmes can, on application, be admitted to the course if this is cleared by their own study programme.
If you are not already enrolled as a student at UiO, please see our information about admission requirements and procedures.
Bachelor degree with an area of emphasis in theology or Christian studies, 80 credits or equivalent. Admission to the Master program in Intercontextual Theology or equivalent.
Prerequisites
Recommended previous knowledge
Introductions to Pauline studies, for example: Bart D. Ehrman, The New Testament. A Historical Introduction. § 19: Paul the Apostle: The Man and his Mission.
Teaching
The course will be given throughout the whole semester with lectures and seminar teaching.
Obligatory requirements
Oral presentations of two written essays (around 1000 words) based on the curriculum texts.
Examination
Examination support material
A paper of 3000-4000 words.
Language of examination
You may submit your response in English , Norwegian, Swedish or Danish.
Grading scale
Grades are awarded on a scale from A to F, where A is the best grade and F is a fail. Read more about the grading system.
Explanations and appeals
Resit an examination
Special examination arrangements
Application form, deadline and requirements for special examination arrangements.