Course

Apocalypticism: Language, Theology, Politics

Apocalyptic movements have flourished, from time to time, throughout history. In this interdisciplinary course, we study apocalyptic beliefs and streams of thought, from biblical times through the Middle Ages and into modern times. We investigate apocalypticism with regard to its mythological roots, linguistic expressions, and theological development, as well as it’s ethical and political use. We examine texts with apocalyptic features from different eras using tools from cognitive metaphor theory, philosophy and the history of ideas, political rhetoric, and film analysis. The course provides an in-depth understanding of apocalypticism as an historical phenomenon and as a literary, theological, and political means of expression.

Collins, John J., 1998 (1984): The Apocalyptic Imagination: An Introduction to Jewish Apocalyptic Literature. Second edition. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans (283 p).

The Encyclopedia of Apocalypticism. 2000. Vol. 1: The Origins of Apocalypticism in Judaism and Christianity. Edited by John J. Collins. New York/London: Continuum. P. 3-38, 267-302, 345-414 (142 p).

Horsley, Richard A., 2012: The Prophet Jesus and the Renewal of Israel: Moving Beyond a Diversionary Debate. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans. P. 1-64 (64 p).

Horsley, Richard A., and Tiller, Patrick A., 2012: After Apocalyptic and Wisdom: Rethinking Texts in Context. Eugene, OR: Cascade Books. P. 230-279 (50 p).

Keller, Catherine, 2005 (1997): Apocalypse Now and Then: Feminist Guide to the End of the World. Minneapolis: Fortress Press. P. 1-83, 140-180, 224-310 (209 p).

Osborn, Ronald E., 2010: Anarchy and Apocalypse: Essays on Faith, Violence, and Theodicy. Eugene, OR: Cascade Books (155 p).

Visions of the End: Apocalyptic Traditions in the Middle Ages. 1998 (1979). Edited by Bernard McGinn. New York: Columbia University Press. P. 1-36, 95-221 (163 p).

Primary texts and some articles, 100 p.

Literature last revised on March 19, 2013.

The schedule is available at the latest one month before the course starts. We do not recommend that you print the schedule as some changes may happen.

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