DESCRIPTION: This course seeks to explore the experiences and contributions of
women in the church from the post-apostolic period though the twentieth
century, together with the theologies and presuppositions that sometimes
supported but more often discouraged their full participation in church and
religious life. It is highly desirable (but not required) that students have
some basic orientation to the world and thought of the patristic and
Reformation periods, such as would be acquired in CH500/1 and CH502/3, but this
course does not otherwise presuppose any acquaintance with church history,
women's studies, or gender issues.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: The course has three objectives: First, that students
become familiar with the central theological doctrines and historical
developments that have shaped the shifting attitudes and practices of the
Christian church with respect to women throughout its history. Second, that by
engaging in close readings of selected primary sources and by interacting with
contemporary historical critics, students will increase their ability to
analyze and articulate the historical significance and theological arguments of
the Christian past and gain a critical appreciation for the theologies,
worldviews, and experiences of women and men throughout this history. Third,
that the knowledge and critical skills fostered in this course will equip
students to reflect on the perennial nature of these doctrinal and
ecclesiastical controversies over gender.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: While the role and ministry of women in the church is
often seen as a recent and even "faddish" concern, one goal of this course is
to acquaint students with the remarkable degree to which gender has always
played a role in the church's practice of theology and ministry. Class
discussions and reflection on readings will help students to evaluate anew the
significance of gender issues for theology and church today.
COURSE FORMAT: Weekly three-and-a-half-hour meetings for lectures and
discussions.
REQUIRED READING: