TRS4502 - An Introduction to the Old Testament (Hebrew Bible)

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:

(1) Demonstrate knowledge of what the Hebrew Bible is and how came to be written
(2) Demonstrate understanding of how biblical texts can be read in terms of different genres (eg history, myth, legend, narrative, poetry etc)
(3) Demonstrate an understanding of some of the techniques of modern biblical criticism (eg literary, social scientific, feminist, post-modernist etc)
(4) Demonstrate appreciation of the significance of key moments in Israelite history
(5) Discuss key themes in Old Testament theology
(6) Demonstrate an understanding of the nature of prophecy in the Hebrew Bible

Content:

A range of topics will be introduced and discussed, which may include the following
• The Bible as Library
• Initial examination of the book of Jonah. What do we mean by ‘historical’?
• What is Biblical ‘criticism’?
• An examination of literary genres
• Overview of the history of the Hebrew peoples
• Examination of TANAK (the Pentateuch, the Historical Books, the Prophets, Wisdom Literature) with close reading of particular sections
• The concept of ‘Messiah’

Learning and Teaching Information:

The course will be taught in plenary sessions which will make use of a blend of teaching and learning methods. These will normally include: lecture-style presentations by the tutor; seminar-style discussion of a particular topic; informal prepared presentations by students, followed by discussion; other exercises as appropriate to material and group. Guidance on reading in preparation for each session and activity will be given; and learning will be supported where appropriate by VLE and other electronic resources. Guidance on research and essay-writing will be embedded in the learning and teaching process throughout the module; and may also be supported by tutorial guidance on essay plans and drafts if required.

Lectures/seminars
Contact hours:40
Number of Groups:1

Assessment:

001 Essay 1 x 1500 words (end of sem 1) 40%
002 Exam 1 x 2 hours (end of sem 2) 40%
003 Portfolio 1 x 1000 words (Sem 1 & 2) 20%


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