HUAS20004 - Christian Mysticism

Course Description

This class is meant to introduce students to the great tradition of Western spirituality. For every figure discussed the instructor will provide relevant background information: historical context, theological currents and influences. One of the important premises of the class is that mysticism is not just a personal experience of an isolated individual; it is not just about extraordinary individuals. Rather, the mystical dimension, is deeply intertwined with the other aspects of a religious tradition: literary, doctrinal, ritual, community.  In most of the cases the mystical element is not just about a moment of climax but it is better described as a process or itinerary that entails training, purgation, prayer, reading and interpretation of scripture.