Religion, the Arts, and Social Change

Through historical and contemporary case studies, this course examines the intersection of religion and politics through the lens of the arts. What do particular artistic expressions reveal about religious influences and worldviews within specific social and historical contexts? How do political assumptions about religion and culture influence artistic expression? Literature, poetry, visual art, music, theater, and dance from around the world are explored. Case studies may include the Christian Passion, the veil, Palestinian-Israeli conflict, Nazi Germany, the cold war, apartheid in South Africa, and the Afro-Brazilian experience. Cross-global cases may also be explored through the lenses of immigration, gay and lesbian rights, global warming, and gender equality. (4 credits)

Prerequisite(s): Proof of English proficiency is required of students whose native language is not English.