REL 129 - Race, Gender, and Sexuality in Christianity (W) (1)

Nothing divides us more as a society than issues of gender, sexuality, and race. And in respect to such matters, the Christian tradition has been responsible for informing the views of many, whether directly or indirectly. Some have seen this tradition as providing a welcomed order and hope to a chaotic world; while others have regarded it as responsible for the denigration and disenfranchisement of women and LGBQTA people. This course aims to introduce the Christian tradition in a new light that respects both positions while giving students the tools to develop their own arguments within and outside of it. This course will survey foundational passages from the Bible that concern gender and sexuality and consider the possibilities and limitations of methods of interpretation (esp. historical criticism). Students will be invited to examine how others’ experiences of their race, gender, and sexual orientation inform their interpretation of Scripture with respect to issues of authority, morality, and survival. As a writing course (W), students will become more proficient in writing arguments that exemplify civility, empathy, and constructive criticism.
(First Year Writing Seminar (FYW)) (Humanities)