Spring 2007/Pasadena
TC521
Johnston

TC521: THEOLOGY AND CONTEMPORARY LITERATURE. Robert K. Johnston.


DESCRIPTION: This course will explore (1) modern and post-modern attitudes toward the "spiritual/transcendent/God" found in selected American literature and (2) a variety of means for theological dialogue with these works. Writings by Kesey, Updike, O'Connor, DeVries, Potok, Morrison, Robbins, Kingsolver, and Lamott, as well as selected essays in critical theory will be read. While debunking or listening, symbolizing or secularizing, arguing or affirming, American fiction over the last fifty years is often found interacting with the religious/spiritual currents that pervade our culture. As such, it invites dialogue from a theological perspective.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: Students will be given the opportunity (1) to develop skills in cultural analysis and interaction by engaging in literary interpretation, (2) to explore possible theological approaches to the reading of literature, (3) to consider how literature might be a resource for "reading culture," for spiritual development and discipleship, and for ministry.

RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: Preparation for ministry often assumes students possess skills in cultural analysis and interaction. This course helps students read their "culture" by having them read in their culture. In the process it provides tools and insight for engaged, effective ministry.

COURSE FORMAT: Discussion and lecture. One book and an accompanying critical essay will be read and discussed each week. With enrollment limited to forty, students will be asked for their active participation in class discussion and small groups. Class meets once a week for a three-hour session.

REQUIRED READING:

DeVries, Peter. Blood of the Lamb (1961).

Kesey, Ken. One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1962).

Kingsolver, Barbara. Animal Dreams (1993).

Lamott, Anne. All New People (1989) OR Traveling Mercies (2000).

Morrison, Toni. Beloved (1987).

O'Connor, Flannery. A Good Man is Hard to Find (1955).

Potok, Chaim. My Name is Asher Lev (1972).

Robbins, Tom. Another Roadside Attraction (1971).

Updike, John. Pigeon Feathers (1962).

Course Reader of selected critical essays (Morrison, Eliot, Johnston, Lewis, O'Connor, Hansen, TeSelle, hooks, Gunn, Nussbaum).

ASSIGNMENTS:
  1. Short précis of each critical essay (10%).

  2. Class presentation on a selected novel/critical essay (20%).

  3. Three- to five-page critique of Flannery O'Connor's A Good Man is Hard to Find (20%).

  4. Eight- to ten-page paper on a second novel by one of the course authors (50%).

PREREQUISITES: None.

RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM: Meets the interdisciplinary course requirement for the MACL in Integrative Studies; the theology and art requirement for the MA in Theology (Theology and Arts format); and specialized requirements for the MA in Worship, Theology, and the Arts, and for the MDiv Concentration in Worship, Theology, and the Arts.

FINAL EXAMINATION: None.