Middlebury

JWST 0160

The Jewish Tradition

Jewish Traditions
“Traditions” are not static, but a constant interplay between continuity and creativity. What do classical Jewish texts (Bible, Rabbinic literature) tell us about Judaism’s origins? How have the core concepts and practices of Judaism morphed into a cluster of traditions that has endured over two millennia? With these questions in mind, we will study central ideas in Jewish thought, rituals, and their transformations, culminating in individual projects involving the investigation a contemporary movement, congregation or trend in contemporary Jewish life, e.g. Reform, Reconstructionism, mystical (neo-Kabbalistic) revivals, or “secular” Judaism. 3 hrs. lect./disc.
Subject:
Jewish Studies
Department:
Jewish Studies
Division:
Interdisciplinary
Requirements Fulfilled:
HIS PHL
Equivalent Courses:
RELI 0160 *

Sections in Spring 2011, School Abroad Italy (Florence)