Christian Culture in World History
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| INTS4107 | School of International Studies | 4 | 20 | Autumn China |
- Code
- INTS4107
- School
- School of International Studies
- Level
- 4
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Autumn China
Summary
This module explores the historical impact of Christianity and offers an opportunity to reflect on the development of intercontinental cultural and social networks. After a basic introduction to the spread of Christianity in the Greco-Roman world, the rise of the Papacy as a transnational institution, and the Protestant Reformation, weekly themes may then vary and deal with an array of case studies. The focus should be on international processes, such as: art, music, and architecture through ages and continents; the encounter East-West through Jesuit missions; the abolitionist movement; just war theory and pacifism; religious influences on modern politics; global humanitarian organizations; and business ethics. Themes and assessment topics may vary from year to year, as the School will take advantage of the several faculty members who can potentially contribute to this module.
The module may include a field trip to Shanghai to visit the Xu Guangqi Memorial and the Tou-Se-We Museum.
Please note: This module is assessed at the end of Autumn semester. First sit/ Re-sit exams are scheduled normally in the summer and can take the same form as the missing/ failed component of the assessment (exam, essay etc.) or other form, as decided by the School.
Target Students
MA students from the School of International Studies.
Classes
- One 1-hour seminar each week for 10 weeks
- One 1-hour lecture each week for 10 weeks
Assessment
- 50% Coursework: 2000-word portfolio
- 50% exam (written) (2-hour): comprehensive final exam
Assessed by end of autumn semester
Educational Aims
To gain general knowledge of the impact of Christianity in World History, and to develop independent research in cultural, intellectual, social, and political history. To acquire skills in academic reading, oral presentations, and writing of an original piece of research.Learning Outcomes
1. Knowledge and understanding:
Ability to explain basic Christian concepts and institutions; understanding of multiform impact of religions on history; awareness of different ways in which spiritual movements challenge and reshape societies.
2. Think critically and imaginatively about the subject matter:
Confidence to assess different scholarly perspectives on Christianity in World History; ability to articulate opinions about current debates in religious studies; evidence of reflection about current issues related to culture and spirituality.
3. Professional/practical skills:
Development of skills relevant to heritage industry; strengthening ability to use databases, library catalogue, and primary sources; ability to absorb and synthetize complex information; presentation skills regarding cultural affairs and local public policies.
4. Use of IT to prepare assessed essays and contribute to class discussions.
5. Development of social awareness; readiness to respect the views of others; furthering appreciation of international organizations and key issues in contemporary and global societies.
Conveners
- Dr James Fujitani