Embodiment and Christian Theology

 This seminar course explores the role of bodies and embodiment by analyzing particular contexts in Christian history and contemporary life. It raises and seeks to answer questions about death, suffering, and the after life, about the relationship between body, minds and soul, about sex, race, gender and dis/ability, about the body as a locus of knowledge/ wisdom, and about religious identity and agency. Putting historical readings from the early church, Medieval Christianity, and Modernity in dialogue with contemporary theological texts, students develop historical understanding of contemporary issues related to embodiment and Christian practice. Student engagement with the course will be evaluated by level and quality of participation, an in-class presentation on one set of readings, two short papers (~2 pages each), and a final paper 12-15 pages). This course qualifies as a designated spirituality elective at EM.