R474 Capstone Seminar: Religion and Literature (3 cr.) MW 1:00-2:15
PY113 (Weaver) AUTH **Obtain authorization from instructor prior to
registration

We will read some classics of spiritual autobiography in Western
Christianity in an effort to understand two things: the need to
produce such a text and the story contained therein.  Students may
consult some secondary literature as they try to understand the
context and content of these works, but we will concentrate on the
texts themselves.  Seminars are fun, but require dedicated preparation
and a willingness to engage material.  Those who like to sit back and
take it all in should not consider this one.   Readings will include:
Augustine, The Confessions, Peter Abelard, The Story of My
Misfortunes, Will also read the letters of Abelard and Heloise, Teresa
of Avila, Autobiography, Thomas Merton, Seven Storey Mountain, Dorothy
Day, The Long Loneliness, Simone Weil, Waiting for God.  I have not
decided about the exam structure yet.  The grades in the course will
be assigned mostly on the basis of preparation and participation and
on the one grand term paper that each student will write.