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2008 Course Description

Faith and Feminism In Western Religions

In what way does our understanding of the feminine and the place of women influence the canon, the theology, the anthropology, and the religious practice in the traditions of the West (Judaism, Christianity, and Islam)?  Can it even be argued that there is a decided difference between the religious experience of men and women within each of these traditions?  The demonization of the feminine, especially the fallen Eve, and the adoration of a particular feminine form -- the good wife of Proverbs 31, the Virgin Mother, or the virtuous, untouchable woman on a pedestal -- have subordinated women and suppressed their voice.  Especially important has been the impact these ideas have had on understandings of embodiment and sexuality.  Of course, the role of power within institutional structures cannot be ignored here, and students will learn what it means to read with a "hermeneutic of suspicion."  Critiques from contemporary goddess centered religion, post-Christian feminism, and feminist philosophy, along with alternative religious visions, such as those seen in the goddesses of Hinduism and the feminine spirits of Native American traditions, will be considered against the larger backdrop of the inter-relationship of religion and culture.    

While exposing and acknowledging the damage of the negative, the course will also concern itself with the recovery of images and practices within each of the primary traditions that have been utilized to create a more liberating and inclusive religious experience for both men and women.  More than half the readings are the work of Jewish, Christian or Muslim feminists whose scholarship is designed to play a constructive role within their respective faith.   Included in the assignments are grounding-breaking feminist work in Scripture study, ethics, theology, and history of religions. 

Texts 2008:
1) Feminist Theology: A Reader, Ann Loades, Westminster John Knox Press, 1990.
2) The Legend and the Apostle: The Battle for Paul in Story and Canon, Dennis R. MacDonald, Westminster Press, 1983.
3) Hagar’s Daughters: Womanist Ways of Being in the World, Diana L. Hayes, Paulist Press, 1995.
4) On-line journal articles
5) Reserve Readings