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| Unit name |
The Bible in the Contemporary World: Hermeneutics (Trinity and Baptist College) |
| Unit code |
THRSM0080 |
| Credit points |
20 |
| Level of study |
M/7
|
| Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12)
|
| Unit director |
Reverend Dr. Lucas |
| Open unit status |
Not open |
| Pre-requisites |
None |
| Co-requisites |
None |
| School/department |
Department of Religion and Theology |
| Faculty |
Faculty of Arts |
Description including Unit Aims
This unit will begin by orienting students to the main interests that have influenced interpreters, particularly over the last hundred years. Some of the main approaches to the interpretation of the Bible will then be introduced and critically examined. This will usually be grounded by discussion of a particular text.
The unit aims to:
- introduce students to the main reasons why the same text gives rise to different interpretations.
- provide an opportunity for an in-depth, critical study of a range of approaches to interpretation of the Bible.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On completion of the unit students should be able to:
- analyse and evaluate a range of interpretations of a biblical text.
- engage critically with some influential schools of interpretation.
- engage sympathetically yet critically with competing interpretations of a biblical text, whether they derive from pre-critical, critical or postmodern perspectives.
- read the Bible in its own terms with confidence, enhanced understanding and enriched sensitivity
Teaching Information
The unit will be taught through preparatory reading, lectures and seminars.
Assessment Information
Formative assessment will be through class discussions, seminars and the preparation and the presentation of a seminar paper, for which the tutor will provide feedback.
Summative assessment will be through one 6,000 word essay.
Reading and References
- Barton, J., Reading the Old Testament: Method in Biblical Study. London: DLT, 2nd ed. 1996.
- Goldingay, J., Models for the Interpretation of Scripture, Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1994.
- Tate, W.R., Biblical Interpretation: An Integrated Approach. Peabody, MA: Hendrickson, 2nd ed. 1997.
- Thistleton, A.C., New Horizons in Hermeneutics, Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1992.
- Vanhoozer, K., Is There a Meaning in This Text? The Bible, the Reader and the Morality of Literary Knowledge, Leicester: Apollos, 1998.
- Wright, N.T., The New Testament and the People of God. London: SPCK, 1992.
