AP/RLST 3557 6.00

Superstition, Religion, and Sexuality

This course explores the intersection of religion and superstition from ancient times to the present. It analyzes issues of gender, power and sexuality through the study of goddesses, witches and the current fascination with vampires in popular culture. It is comprised of three units. The first unit analyzes goddesses in the ancient near east and in classical Greece and Rome and issues raised around goddess culture and women’s empowerment. The second unit studies the persecution of witches in medieval Europe and thereafter in America (e.g. the Salem witch trials) as a response to the perceived power and wisdom of women. It analyzes the relationship between witchcraft and religion in the early modern and subsequent periods. The third unit explores the recent interest in and proliferation of novels, films and TV shows on vampires. Contemporary popular culture is replete with images of the supernatural, which are particularly directed towards young girls. Films and television shows such as “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and novels such as Stephanie Meyer’s Twilight trilogy focus on and relate to adolescent girls and young women. The appeal of these figures in print and other media embraced by “girl” culture will be analyzed. Primary sources from the ancient Near East, some biblical material and classical drama will be read. We will also read an early modern text on witches as well as contemporary works such as Arthur Miller's play "The Crucible" and Gregory Maguire's "Wicked." Other contemporary texts will include TV shows, films and a novel.

RELIGIOUS TRADITION(S) COVERED: Multiple

Cross-listed as AP/GWST 3557 6.00.

Course Category: Religion and Gender