TRS5402 - Theology in the Modern World

Objectives:

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

(1) Demonstrate knowledge of the major movements in Western Christian theology since c.1500
(2) Demonstrate an understanding of some of the debates and developments within the tradition of Christian theology during this period(BR> (3) Outline, analyse and discuss the principal ideas of specified theologians and theological movements
(4) Assess the relevance of these ideas and debates for contemporary Christian theology and practice

Content:

A historically-informed survey of theological developments and debates in the Western Church from c. 1500 to the present.

A study of major movements in Western theology and philosophy, perhaps including some of the following: Humanism, the Reformation and Counter Reformation, Jansenism, the Enlightenment, Methodism, the Oxford Movement, Marxism and Liberation Theology, Liberalism, Modernism, Feminism, Postmodernism.

A study of the theological writings of major authors, e.g. Luther, Calvin, Bossuet, Pascal, Schleiermacher, Newman, Barth, Bonhoeffer, Rahner, von Balthasar, Ratzinger.

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; formal assessment by presentation to the rest of the group; 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 if required.

Lectures / Seminars
Contact hours 40
Number of groups 1

Assessment: