DESCRIPTION:

This course is designed to give a general introduction to the history of the Armenian Church from the apostolic age to the present. Social, cultural, and theological factors will be discussed to show why and how this nation was first to accept Christianity and endure against many odds as a Christian nation. Special emphasis will be given to the rise of the Catholic and Protestant Armenian traditions and to the recent discussions on reunion.

Students interested in serving the Armenian people as pastors and missionaries, as well as those desiring to gain an understanding of the Orthodox tradition, will benefit from this course.

The class will meet daily (Monday-Friday) for four-hour sessions for lecture and discussion. Outside readings will be required in preparation for each class.

Greppin, John A. C. Studies in Classical Armenian Literature. Delmar, NY: Caravan Books, 1994.

Haleblian, Krikor. The Armenian Church in Context. Los Angeles: Abril Print. and Pub., 1996.

Hovannisian, Richard, ed. The Armenian People from Ancient to Modern Times, Volumes I & 2. New York: St. Martin's Press, 1997.

Snorhali, St. Nerses. General Epistle. Translation and Introduction by Arakel Aljalian. New Rochelle, NY: St. Nerses's Armenian Seminary, 1996.

Assigned readings will be required in preparation for each class. A major research paper will also be assigned for each student. Final grades will be based on the following ratio:

1. Class attendance and participation: 20%.

2. Reading report: 20%.

3. A major research paper: 30%.

4. Final examination: 30%.

None.

Elective.

A take-home exam with several essay questions.