Two papers of approx. 10 pages each. Students will meet with the professor early for each paper to propose a topic and for the purpose of guidance in researching it. Note that papers must utilize library resources (books and journals) in addition to course texts). (Each paper 20% of course grade)
PAPER 1: may be handed in for provisional grade and criticism by MondayOctober 9 and handed back on Monday Oct 16, the last class before the Fall Recess. Revised final version for final grade due October 25 (Wednesday after the Fall Recess).
TOPIC: an interpretive study of a story of the patriarchal era.
- Papers submitted for first reading after the deadline for provisional grades will be given final grades without the option of revising.
- Provisional grades become final on due date for the revised final version if the papers have not been revised and resubmitted.
PAPER 2: to be handed in on Nov. 27 (Monday after Thanksgiving Recess)
- TOPIC: pertaining to the prophetic literature of the monarchic era or the Babylonian Exile. For this paper, I will consider alternative proposals if you have special interests in some other literature in the Hebrew Bible.
Final examination: The exam will have two major parts: essays and identifications. The essays will involve critique of a modern interpretation of a biblical text and/or your own interpretation. The identifications will test your mastery of basic information, such as important events, names and dates which will be emphasized during the semester in study guides and other handouts, in the readings, and/or in lectures. (20% of course grade)
Submission of two clippings or xeroxes of articles or book reviews relating to the Hebrew Bible (on 2 different topics) from current newspapers or newsmagazines. Each article should be accompanied by a substantive short (2 p.) paper defining (1) how the article relates the Bible to a contemporary issue (such as "family values," gender roles, religious intolerance, racism, etc.; (2) whether you think the author of the article was trying to influence his audience (and why); (3) your own response to the article. Articles which you may have read during the past summer and Internet publications are acceptable. Deadlines: end of September & October. (20% of course grade). Start looking early!
- NOTE: include full bibliographical information on the articles submitted.
http://www.bates.edu/Faculty/Philosophy%20and%20Religion/rel_235/235_requirements.html