An exploration of the development of the Christian tradition from the second century A.D. to the Reformation. The inquiry will focus on pivotal theological-philosophical controversies and social-cultural crises that have shaped Christian history. Consideration will be given to such issues as the relation between early Christianity and the Roman Empire, Christianity's encounter with Gnosticism, early Christological and Trinitarian debates, the medieval synthesis and the rise of the Reformation. The course will examine the relation between theological problems and the historical-cultural conditions from which they emerge. Requirements: a midterm paper and a final exam. Lecture and discussion. Open to all classes without prerequisite.
TAYLOR