RELSTY 109: Symbol, Myth & Ritual: Cultural Studies in Religion

This course introduces students to the academic study of religion by examining the social function of religious phenomena in relation to wider sets of human behaviors, beliefs, and institutions. Students will explore the nature and concept of religion as well as the complex relationship between religion and other dimensions of human culture. Students will consider in particular the role of myths, symbols, and rituals in shaping religious identity. Major topics of discussion may include gender and sexuality, science and religion, death and dying, civil religion, religion and the visual arts, religion and entertainment, and religious violence.