Program Requirements

The following are new requirements for students enrolling in a Christianity and Culture Specialist or Major Program as of 2011-2012. The requirements for the Minor Programs have not changed.

Enrolment in the Specialist, Major and Minor Programs is open to students who have completed four courses.

All Specialists, Majors and Minors must have their program of study approved by the coordinator.

The courses of the Christianity and Culture Program include

1. (1) all the SMC prefixed courses listed under the Christianity and Culture heading, and
2. (2) the following courses of other departments: HIS469H1 / NMC202H1 / NMC270H1 / RLG228H1 / RLG331H1 / RLG338Y1

In addition to Christianity and Culture courses, a number of other courses are cross-listed and may be counted towards the Specialist and Major Programs as specified below. (see Complete Course Listing.)

FCE = full course equivalent (one full credit or two half-credits)

Courses Offered 2011-2012

SMC103Y1Y CATHOLICISM

Instructor: Reid Locklin
Class: MW2 | Tutorials:M3 / W1 / W3

An introduction to Christianity as it has been lived, celebrated, and reflected on in the Roman Catholic tradition. History is a key to understanding Catholicism's distinctive attitudes and features: creeds, councils and the papacy; liturgy and spirituality; monasticism, active religious orders and the priesthood; theology, education and social justice; Roman and universal. Vatican II's vision of a renewed Catholicism for the 20th and 21st centuries. Challenges and possibilities facing the contemporary church.

SMC201H1S CHRISTIANITY AND LITERATURE

Instructor: Alexandra Bolintineanu
Class: T5-7

An exploration of major Christian themes, such as redemption and sacrifice, in works of ancient and modern literature. Includes an examination of different genres (the novel, poetry, drama), written for differing times and cultures.

SMC203Y1Y CHRISTIANITY ENCOUNTERS THE SECULAR WORLD

Instructor: Jessy Pagliaroli
Class: MW10 | Tutorials: M11 / W11

Throughout history, the Christian church has defined itself as a distinctive way of life, and it has contended with the social, economic and political dimensions of secular culture. This course traces the history of Christianity, with particular reference to four themes: Christianity and changing social mores; Christianity and the state; Christianity and ethnicity; and Christianity and changing "world views." Unlike traditional "Church History" courses, the emphasis will be placed on social history and popular religious culture. At the root of this historical enquiry is the fundamental question of how Christians attempt to be in this world, yet not of it.

Readings: a specially prepared cahier of primary documents for use in both terms.

SMC204H1F CHRISTIANITY AND ASIA

Instructor: Terry Fay
Class: T10-12

Thomas the Apostle is believed to have spread Christianity to the East when Paul the Apostle spread Christianity to the West. Thomas and his disciples are believed to have evangelized the Syrians, Chaldeans, and eventually the Indians. It was later through the Nestorian Christians of Persia that Christianity in the 7C was extended to China. Franciscans and Dominicans in the 13C and 14C renewed the gospel message in Asia. Francis Xavier, Matteo Ricci, and Robert di Nobili in the modern period renewed Asian Christianity. Despite persecution in the 18C and 19C, Christian Churches emerged strong in the 20C except when driven underground in 1949 by the Communist Parties of China and North Korea. Philip Jenkins sums up Christianity in Asia: "We can't understand Christian history without Asia – or, indeed, Asian history without Christianity."

SMC205H1F VARIETIES OF CHRISTIAN EXPERIENCE

Instructor: Giulio Silano
Class: R4-6

Exploration of the variety of forms which Christian personal experience has taken in the course of history (martyrdom, mysticism, monasticism, sanctification of ordinary life, etc.) in order to appreciate their variety, complexity, and deep unity.

SMC216Y1Y RITUAL AND WORSHIP

Instructor: Michael O'Connor
Class: M2-4 | Tutorial: W2/W4

An introduction to Christian ritual and worship, in cross-cultural and ecumenical perspective. Biblical roots and historical development of the Christian sacraments, especially baptism and the Eucharist. Contemporary Catholic perspectives on worship in a secular and multicultural world.

SMC232H1F MODELS OF RELATING CHRISTIANITY AND SCIENCE

Instructor: Yiftach Fehige
Class: R10-12

This course examines different models of relating Christianity and science. Beginning with the biblical view on the natural world and moving to the present, the lectures develop a wide range of approaches.

SMC305H1S CHRISTIANITY AND POPULAR CULTURE

Instructor: Jennifer Harris
Class: T10-1

An examination of both overt and covert representation of Christian ideas in contemporary popular media. We examine the ways in which Christian themes have been appropriated and subverted in mass media, while also examining the innovative ways these themes, such as redemption, sacrifice, vocation, and hope, are presented anew.

Recommended preparation: SMC 200Y1

SMC307Y1Y SCRIPTURE IN CHRISTIAN TRADITION

Instructor: Daniel Donovan
Class: TR2 | Tutorials: T3 / R1

An introduction to both the Christian Bible and the ways in which it has been interpreted over the centuries; a brief overview of the Hebrew Scriptures and the use made of them in the writing of the New Testament; a cross-section of Christian biblical interpretation from Origen and Augustine to Luther and modern biblical criticism; a contemporary reading of the Gospel of Matthew and of the First Letter of Paul to the Corinthians.

SMC310H1S THE CATECHISM OF THE CATHOLIC CHURCH

Instructor: Giulio Silano
Class: R2-4

Introduces students to the Catechism of the Catholic Church (1994) and its antecedents. After an historical survey of religious instruction in the Church, the students will engage in a close reading of selected sections of the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

SMC311H1F WHY THE CHURCH

Instructor: Giulio Silano
Class: R2-4

The Catholic Church claims to be the continuation of the event of Christ in history, the guarantor of the authenticity of each person's encounter with his mystery, and the means by which the memory of Christ may be cultivated. The course examines the reasons for these claims and the form which they have taken in the course of Christian history. This examination proceeds by way of the class discussion of the ecclesiological reflections of Giussani, Dulles, de Lubac, and others.
Recommended preparation: SMC103Y1 / SMC200Y1 / SMC201H1 / SMC205H1 / SMC216Y1

SMC362Y1S INTERCORDIA

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Instructor: Reid Locklin
Class: T3-5

Service learning course in social justice and international development. Seminars in the Winter term and international service with Intercordia Canada between May and July. There will be additional costs to students associated with this program. Duration is January to August; all add / cancel / refunds deadlines as per a regular S course.

Prerequisite: None; interview process prior to enrolment | Recommended preparation: SMC 103Y1 / 203Y1 / 205H

SMC366H1F INTERRELIGIOUS DIALOGUE AND PRACTICE (FORMERLY SMC218Y1)

Instructor: Reid Locklin
Class: TRF1

An introduction to religious diversity as a feature of contemporary Christian life, thought and practice. Toronto offers a unique opportunity for students to engage questions of interreligious dialogue and practice in living, dynamic environments. This is a service-learning course: required placements will be arranged through the Centre for Community Partnerships.

Prerequisite: Six full courses | Exclusion: SMC218Y1 | Recommended preparation: SMC103Y1 / SMC203Y1 / RLG100Y1

SMC 371H1S FAITH AND PHYSICS

Instructor: Yiftach Fehige
Class: W10-12

The complex interplay between religious belief, culture, and the emergence of modern physical theory: rise and fall of mechanistic theories, relativity, particle physics and models of the Universe, Big Bang theory and Black Holes, etc.

Prerequisite: Four university courses

SMC385H1S NUMBERS AND THE HUMANITIES: MULTICULTURAL TORONTO

Instructor: Denis McKim
Class: M10-12

An introduction to research methods in the Humanities focusing on quantification, the use of routinely generated records, forensic analysis, and data collection and analysis. Critique of these methods. This year the course focuses on multiculturalism and ethnicity in Toronto. Students will reconstruct the life of immigrant groups in the city by use of municipal assessment records, the censuses of 1901 and 1911, church records, newspapers, maps, city directories, and records housed in the collection of the Multicultural History Society of Ontario, located in SMC's Kelly library.

Prerequisite: Students must be registered in major or specialist programs in SMC / SLA / FRE / GER / ITA

SMC390Y1Y / SMC391H1F / SMC391H1S | INDEPENDENT STUDIES IN CHRISTIANITY AND CULTURE

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Instructor: Staff

A concluding course or half-course in Christianity and Culture, providing an opportunity to synthesize insights acquired during the course of the program (enrolment subject to availability of a supervisor).

Prerequisite: Written approval of Program Director

SMC417H1F METHODS IN BIBLICAL STUDIES (OT)

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Instructor: John McLaughlin
Class: R2-4 or R6-9

A survey of the religious traditions of ancient Israel as they are reflected in the diverse types of literature found in the First Testament, with emphasis on their historical development and their relevance for contemporary scholarship. Topics to be considered include: Israelite origins, settlement in the land, social structures, the monarchy, prophecy, the exile and return.

Prerequisite: SMC307Y1; permission of Program Coordinator

SMC418H1S METHODS IN BIBLICAL STUDIES (NT)

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Instructor: Michael Steinhauser
Class: R11-1 or R7-9 | Tutorials: TBA

Introduction to the major methods and issues in New Testament interpretation: textual criticism; the world of the New Testament; the composition, structure and theologies of the Synoptic Gospels; the Jesus of History and the Christ of Faith.

Prerequisite: SMC307Y1; permission of Program Coordinator

SMC422H1S SACRED SPACE IN THE CHRISTIAN TRADITION

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Instructor: Jennifer Harris
Class: F10-1

An examination of the development of sacred space in the early Church, reflection upon its place in the imaginative landscape of the European Middle Ages, and discussion of its implications for the understanding of space and place in our own culture.

Prerequisite: One course in the History of Christianity; completion of ten full-course credits | Recommended preparation: SMC200Y1

SMC 423H1F TOPICS IN THE THEOLOGY OF CULTURE I: TOWARD A CHRISTIAN POLITICAL ECONOMY

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Instructor: Brian Walsh
Class:M2-4

This course will engage in theological / biblical reflection on the nature of political economy by attending to themes of covenant, property, stewardship, justice and Kingdom. And we will bring that biblical reflection into dialogue with the work of Christian political economist Bob Goudzwaard. Professor Emeritus of the Free University of Amsterdam , former member of parliament, advisor to political parties, think tanks and NGO's around the world, Goudzwaard has had a profound influence in shaping a Christian political-economic imagination.In this course we will read Goudzwaard's most important books (in translation) and have the opportunity to spend four seminars in conversation with him early in the semester.

Prerequisite: Completion of ten full-course credits; permission of program co-ordinator | Recommended preparation: SMC200Y1 / SMC208Y1 / SMC305H1 / SMC330Y1 / SMC426H1

SMC424H1S TOPICS IN THE THEOLOGY OF CULTURE II: BEYOND HOMELESSNESS

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Instructor: Brian Walsh
Class: T7-9

An interdisciplinary study of homelessness in the light of a theological and phenomenological analysis of homecoming and homemaking. Socio-economic, geo-political and ecological homelessness will be interpreted in the context of postmodern displacement.

Prerequisite: Completion of ten full-course credits; permission of program co-ordinator | Recommended preparation: SMC200Y1 / SMC208Y1 / SMC305H1 / SMC330Y1 / SMC426H1

SMC426H1S THE SOCIAL JUSTICE SEMINAR: CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING

Instructor: Mary Rowell
Class: R10-12

A research seminar to explore the foundational principles and historical applications of Catholic social teaching since Rerum Novarum. Special emphasis placed on scriptural texts, magisterial documents, and contemporary case studies. Integral to the course is a major paper based on primary source research.

Prerequisite: SMC203Y1 / SMC103Y1; completion of ten full-course credits | Recommended preparation: SMC309H1 / RLG336H1

SMC432H1S CHRISTIANITY AND SCIENCE ON HUMAN SEXUALITY

Instructor: Yiftach Fehige
Class: T10-12

A seminar addressing diverse and sometimes conflicting scientific, philosophical, and theological approaches to human sexuality, with a special focus on Habermas and compatibilism. Includes a systematic exploration of the ontology of the sexed human body and transsexuality, the metaphysics of human sexuality, and issues related to a science of orgasm.

Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor | Recommended preparation: PHL243H1; SMC203Y1

SMC433Y1Y / SMC434H1F / SMC434H1S INDEPENDENT STUDIES IN CHRISTIANITY AND CULTURE

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An independent research project to be proposed by the student and supervised by a Christianity and Culture faculty member. The student, in consultation with the faculty member, may choose either a one-term (H) or a two-term (Y) project.

Prerequisite: Ten full courses; permission of Program Director

SMC454H1F TOPICS IN EASTERN CHRISTIAN STUDIES: history of eastern christianity

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Instructor: Jaroslav Skira
Class: R11-1

A history of Eastern Christianities through the study of the life and works of major authors who shaped Eastern Christian traditions, including Origen, Aphrahat, Athanasius, Cyril of Alexandria, the Cappadocians, Maximus the Confessor, Simeon the New Theologian, Nicholas Cabasilas, Gregory Palamas. Lectures-seminars, short synthesis papers, major paper.

Prerequisite: Completion of ten full-course credits | Recommended preparation: SMC203Y1 / SMC208Y1 / NMC270H1 and / or RLG331H1

SMC456H1F INDIAN CHRISTIANITY

Instructor: Reid Locklin
Class: T6-9

An advanced study of the historical development, major theological writings and contemporary ethnographic studies of diverse Christian traditions in South Asia. Topics to be covered include the legacy of Thomas Christianity, Hindu-Christian dialogue, the Christian ashram movement, liturgical inculturation and religious hybridity.

Prerequisite: Completion of ten full-course credits | Recommended preparation: SMC203Y1 / SMC204H1 / RLG203Y1 and / or RLG205Y1

Approved CROSS-LISTED Courses OFFERED 2011-2012

SMC210Y1Y THE MEDIAEVAL TRADITION

Instructor: TBA/Michèle Mulchahey
Class: W2-4

This course provides an introduction to the thought and culture of the European Middle Ages. Students are introduced to the important monuments of mediaeval History, Thought, Literature, and Art, and follow some of the common threads that run through all these disciplines. The course explores some of the classical antecedents and chief expressions of mediaeval life and thought.

SMC222H1S MEDIAEVAL LATIN I (formerly LAT322H1 / SMC322H1)

Instructor: Alexander Andrée
Class: MW10-12

This course is an introduction to mediaeval Latin language and literature. Through the study of a selection of texts - prose and poetry- students will be introduced to some typical mediaeval Latin genres, subjects and styles. Emphasis will be on the linguistic differences between mediaeval Latin and its classical antecedent, especially in regard to vocabulary, grammar and orthography. A review of Latin grammar will be part of the course, and students should note that this course assumes a basic knowledge of Latin morphology and syntax and core vocabulary.

Prerequisite: LAT100Y1 / LAT102H1 | Exclusion: LAT322H1 / SMC322H1

SMC240Y1Y CELTIC CULTURES THROUGH THE AGES

Instructor: Ann Dooley / Tadhg Morris
Class: MW11 | Tutorials: M12 / W9

The expression of Celtic cultures in literature, history, folklore and myth from 600 B.C. to the present, with particular attention to the continuing Celtic contribution to Western culture.

SMC324H1F THE STUDY OF THE BIBLE IN THE MIDDLE AGES

Instructor: Alexander Andrée
Class: W10-12
This course explores mediaeval biblical commentary and the various approaches taken by the exegetes to uncover the secrets of the sacred page, for instance through the "four senses" of Scripture: history, allegory, tropology, and anagogy
Recommended preparation: SMC210Y1

SMC 358H1F THE MEDIAEVAL BOOK

Instructor: Greti Dinkova-Bruun
Class: T10-12

This course examines the most salient aspects of mediaeval manuscript culture. We will study how the parchment for books was folded, pricked, ruled and bound, as well as what scripts were employed in the different codices. We will also examine the various types of books made in the Middle Ages, the development of manuscript library collections and how modern technology is changing the study of the mediaeval book.

Recommended preparation: LAT100Y1 / LAT102H1 / SMC210Y1 or a course in mediaeval history

SMC 359H1S MEDIAEVAL THEOLOGY

Instructor: Joseph Goering
Class: R2-4

An introduction to the discipline of theology as taught in the mediaeval schools. Building on a basic knowledge of Christian scriptures and of philosophical argument, this course will offer an organic exposition of mediaeval theology, together with an introduction into the scientific method of theological investigation as practised in the Middle Ages.

Recommended preparation: SMC210Y1

SMC397H1F RELIGION, MEDIA AND CULTURE

Instructor: John Pungente
Class: W10-12

The course will center around the various ways television and popular culture deal with religion. This is a vast topic and the course will concentrate on the way North American popular culture particularly television programming has looked and is looking at questions of religion either explicitly or implicitly. Some of the questions to be addressed include: Who are TV's martyrs and saints? What is the role of the prophet? How does TV deal with ethical and moral issues not only in drama and comedy but also in news programming? Does TV really give good grief? The course will take a wide ranging look at these and other issues.

Recommended preparation: SMC219Y1 / SMC228H1 / SMC229H1

Complete Course Listing

SMC103Y1 Catholicism

An introduction to Catholic Christianity, to its history, institutions, and theology. The second part of the course examines the renewal effort of Vatican II and offers a contemporary Catholic reading of the Creed.

SMC200Y1 The Christian Imagination

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the depth and breadth of the imagination in the western Christian tradition. We shall explore components of the distinctively Christian imagination, as well as its expression in various media, including the visual and plastic arts, literature, film, and music.

SMC201H1 Christianity and Literature (formerly Christian Classics)

An exploration of major Christian themes, such as redemption and sacrifice, in works of ancient and modern literature. Includes an examination of different genres (the novel, poetry, drama), written for differing times and cultures.

SMC203Y1 Christianity Encounters the Secular World

Issues raised by Christianitys encounter with secular culture, and solutions proposed by the tradition: involvement in political structures, social movements, ethnic communities, and changing world views.

SMC204H1 Christianity and Asia

A study of key elements in the encounter of Christianity and Asia: e.g. the controversy over Chinese rites; Koreas conversion by lay philosophers; the development of Filipino folk Catholicism and its impact on politics; the influence of Indian thought on recent Western theologians.

SMC205H1 Varieties of Christian Experience

Exploration of the variety of forms which Christian personal experience has taken in the course of history (martyrdom, mysticism, monasticism, sanctification of ordinary life, etc.) in order to appreciate their variety, complexity, and deep unity.

SMC206H1 Christianity and Music

The various roles given music in Christian tradition and the impact of Christianity on Western music. Case studies from Gregorian chant to the present illustrate major issues (sacred vs. profane, acceptable styles or instruments, text and music, emotion and rationalism) to provide a critical vocabulary applicable to present works. Some background in music is required.

Recommended preparation: SMC200Y1 / SMC203Y1

SMC207H1 CHRISTIANITY IN LATIN AMERICA

The development of Christian communities in Latin America with an emphasis on such themes as the Spanish Conquista, missions, church-state relations, popular religious culture, and the emergence of Liberation Theology.
Recommended preparation: SMC203Y1

SMC208y1 major christian thinkers

An introduction to the Christian intellectual tradition through a study of key figures representing a variety of historical periods, from the patristic through the medieval to the modern and contemporary. The selected authors discuss a range of religious, intellectual and human issues from basic Christian beliefs to the challenges of modern and postmodern cultures.

SMC209H1Christianity in Africa

The social, theological, and institutional development of Christian communities in Africa, including the birth of early churches in North Africa, missionary activity, popular religion, and the emergence of new Christian movements in the post-colonial period.

Recommended preparation: SMC203Y1

SMC215H1 Varieties of Christian Community

Christian history has been characterized by an enduring and fruitful search for forms of religious community. This course surveys some communal attempts to express Christianity, monasticism, forms of common life for clerics, the Mendicants, lay confraternities, religious orders, and contemporary lay movements.

SMC216Y1 Ritual and Worship

An introduction to Christian ritual and worship, in cross-cultural and ecumenical perspective. Biblical roots and historical development of the Christian sacraments, especially baptism and the Eucharist. Contemporary Catholic perspectives on worship in a secular and multicultural world.

SMC217H1 Literature and the Christian Child

An exploration of connections between a childs moral development and literature in Christian traditions. We examine literary, historical and philosophical developments appropriate to the childs imagination. The course will include the study of poems, catechetical materials, novels and other texts written for children.

SMC231Y1 Thought Experiments in Theology and Science

A lecture course introducing theological and scientific thought experiments (e.g., Einstein chasing the beam of light). Do thought experiments enable us to gain knowledge about the world and God by imagining hypothetical scenarios? If so, why bother with real world experiments? And is the mind attuned to grasp God?

SMC232H1 Models of Relating Christianity and Science

This course examines different models of relating Christianity and Science. Beginning with the biblical view on the natural world and moving to the present, the lectures develop a wide range of approaches.

Exclusion: SMC230Y1

SMC233H1 Christianity and Science: Disputed Questions

This course engages various controversial issues in the natural sciences of import to Christian faith. Examples include: Creation vs. Evolution, Free Will vs. Determinism, Naturalism vs. Revelation.

Prerequisite: One Full Course in the Natural Sciences | Exclusion: SMC230Y1

SMC302H1 Christianity and Symbols

The originality of Christian symbolism is explored through texts, images, and other media. We examine theories of symbolism, then explore the use of Christian symbolism and symbolic patterns in ancient and medieval art, architecture and literature.

SMC304H1 Christianity, Law and Society

An examination of Canon Law; the process by which it came into being, and its impact on contemporary culture. Premises and techniques of ecclesial law-making are compared to those of other systems of legislation. Specific sections of the Code of Canon Law are examined.

Recommended preparation: SMC203Y1

SMC305H1 Christianity and Popular Culture

An examination of both overt and covert representations of Christian ideas in contemporary popular media. We examine the ways in which Christian themes have been appropriated and subverted in mass media, while also examining the innovative ways these themes, such as redemption, sacrifice, vocation, and hope, are presented anew.

Recommended preparation: SMC200Y1

SMC306H1 Christianity and New Technologies

Technology represents a significant challenge to Christian traditions. This course will explore Christian responses to technologies such as genetic engineering, cyberspace, and life extension. Students will examine the metaphysical perspectives and metaphorical images that the Christian tradition presents to respond to the claims of unbridled technology.
Exclusion: RLG338Y1 | Recommended preparation:SMC230Y1

SMC307Y1 Scripture in Christian Tradition

An introduction to the place and meaning of the Bible within the Christian tradition; the practice of biblical interpretation in the patristic, medieval and modern periods; a contemporary reading of one of the Gospels and of a letter of Paul.

SMC308H1 Marriage and the Family in the Catholic Tradition (formerly Marriage and the Family in Canon Law)

A close reading of the Code of Canon Law touching on the themes of marriage and the family; relationship to other fundamental Church statements (e.g. Familiaris Consortio); examination of issues raised by opposition between church teaching and other views.

Recommended preparation: SMC203Y1 / SMC304H1

SMC309H1 Christianity and Politics

This course explores developments in the relations between the Catholic Church and the states of Western Europe and America from the Enlightenment to the present. Of particular concern is Catholicisms response to the political theories of the Enlightenment, the secularization of the state and social justice issues.

Recommended preparation:SMC203Y1 / HIS241H1

SMC310H1 The Catechism of the Catholic Church

Introduces students to the Catechism of the Catholic Church (1994) and its antecedents. After an historical survey of religious instruction in the Church, the students will engage in a close reading of selected sections of the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

SMC311H1 Why the Church

The Catholic Church claims to be the continuation of the event of Christ in history, the guarantor of the authenticity of each persons encounter with Christ, and the means by which His memory may be cultivated. The course examines the reasons for these claims and the forms they have taken.

Recommended preparation: SMC103Y1 / SMC200Y1 / SMC201H1 / SMC205H1 / SMC216Y1

SMC312H1 Catholicism and Education

The Catholic Church has developed a distinctive approach to the pedagogical enterprise. This course explores aspects of this approach by an examination of canonical legislation and other texts published by ecclesiastical authorities and their application in Canada.

SMC313H1 Catholic Education in Ontario

An historical appraisal of the evolution of Catholic schools, universities, and catechetical education in Ontario. Special emphasis is placed on the evolution of Ontarios separate school system.

SMC320H1 The Catholic Church in Canada (formerly SMC420H1)

An exploration of the historical development of Catholic communities and institutions in all regions of Canada since the 16th century. Emphasis placed on themes of mission, church-state relations, ethnicity, belief and practice, social justice, gender, and secularization.
Exclusion: SMC420H1

SMC321H1 The Catholic Church and Canadian Law

The Churchs self-understanding generates interesting problems in her relations with the civil societies in which she lives. These problems are often fruitful and leave marks in the legislation of each of these societies. This course will assess the extent to which this has been true in Canada, from the earliest days of European expansion until the present. After an historical introduction regarding the legal status of the Church in French and post-conquest Canada, we will study the current legal treatment of Church activity, institutions, and property. The legal treatment of criminous clerics will also be examined.

Recommended preparation: SMC203Y1

SMC330Y1 Christ in Christian Tradition

Faith in Christ is central to Christianity. This course examines both classical formulations of that faith and Enlightenment critiques of them. It introduces students to contemporary rethinking of christology in the light of modern science and philosophy, comparative religion, feminism, and liberation movements.

SMC332H1 Apocalypse and Millennium (formerly SMC402H1)

The study of past outbursts of Christian interest in the millennium theme, and the end of the world, modern manifestations of this trend, and the implications of its contemporary revitalization at the dawn of the third millennium.

Exclusion: SMC402H1

SMC362Y1 Intercordia

Service learning course in social justice and international development. Seminars in the Winter term and international service with Intercordia Canada, a non-governmental organisation that arranges international placements for educational purposes, between May and July. There will be additional costs to students associated with this program. Duration is January to August; all add / cancel / refunds deadlines as per a regular S course.

Prerequisite: interview process prior to enrolment | Recommended preparation: SMC103Y1 / SMC203Y1 / SMC205H1

SMC363H1 Music and Liturgy

An exploration of the place of music in Christian worship, with a focus on contemporary Eucharist. Examination of the development of liturgico-musical principles and their practical implementation. Topics may include: styles and repertoires, singing liturgical texts, hymnody and other forms of congregational singing, choirs and cantors, the use of instruments.

Prerequisite: Completion of ten courses; two courses in Christianity and Culture | Recommended preparation: SMC206H1 / SMC216Y1

SMC364H1 The Christian Book

An interdisciplinary examination of the Bible as artifact and as an index of culture, art, and language. Topics include: the mediaeval giant Bibles, illuminated and illustrated Bibles, the Gutenberg Bible, The King James Bible, the Bible industry, the Bible online, the Bible as sacred object, sacred language and vernacular.

Recommended preparation: SMC200Y1 / SMC228H1 / SMC229H1

SMC366H1 Interreligious Dialogue and Practice (formerly SMC218Y1)

An introduction to religious diversity as a feature of contemporary Christian life, thought and practice. Toronto offers a unique opportunity for students to engage questions of interreligious dialogue and practice in living, dynamic environments. This is a service-learning course: required placements will be arranged through the Centre for Community Partnerships.

Prerequisite: Six full courses | Exclusion: SMC218Y1 | Recommended preparation: SMC103Y1 / SMC203Y1 / RLG100Y1

SMC371H1 Faith and Physics

The complex interplay between religious belief, culture, and the emergence of modern physical theory: rise and fall of mechanistic theories, relativity, particle physics and models of the Universe, Big Bang theory and Black Holes, etc.

Prerequisite: Four university courses

SMC372H1 Scientific Experiments and Human Dignity

This seminar will explore the fundamental value of human dignity, as it arose in the Judaeo-Christian tradition, and the moral dilemmas it poses in the context of medical experiments. Scientific research, and its place in our culture, will be discussed against the background of an ethics informed by Judaeo-Christian values.

Prerequisite: Ten courses completed

SMC390Y1 / SMC391H1 Independent Studies in Christianity and Culture

Concluding courses in Christianity and Culture, providing an opportunity to synthesize insights acquired during the course of the program (enrolment subject to availability of a supervisor).

Prerequisite: Written approval of Program Director

SMC400H1Advanced Topics in Christianity and Culture I

A course/seminar on a topic to be determined annually.

Prerequisite: Two courses in Christianity and Culture

SMC401H1Advanced Topics in Christianity and Culture II

A course/seminar on a topic to be determined annually.

Prerequisite: Two courses in Christianity and Culture

SMC417H1 Methods in Biblical Studies (OT)

A survey of the religious traditions of ancient Israel as they are reflected in the diverse types of literature found in the First Testament, with emphasis on their historical development and their relevance for contemporary scholarship. Topics to be considered include: Israelite origins, settlement in the land, social structures, the monarchy, prophecy, the exile and return.

Prerequisite: SMC307Y1

SMC418H1 Methods in Biblical Studies (NT)

Introduction to the major methods and issues in New Testament interpretation: textual criticism; the world of the New Testament; the composition, structure and theologies of the Synoptic Gospels; the Jesus of History and the Christ of Faith.

Prerequisite: SMC307Y1

SMC419H1 Religious Pluralism and the Church

This course will examine Christian responses to religious pluralism, focusing particularly upon twentieth-century developments in comparative theology, theology of religions, and inter-religious dialogue. Although the course will focus on examples from the context of post-Vatican II Catholicism, students will have opportunities to study comparable developments outside this tradition.

Prerequisite: Completion of 10 full-course credits | Recommended preparation: SMC103Y1 / SMC330Y1

SMC421H1 Jews and Judaism in Christian Traditions

A seminar devoted to examining the changing representation of Jews and Judaism within Christian traditions over the past two thousand years.

Prerequisite: Completion of 10 full-course credits; permission of the instructor | Recommended preparation: SMC200Y1

SMC422H1 Sacred Space in the Christian Tradition

An examination of the development of sacred space in the early Church, reflection upon its place in the imaginative landscape of the European Middle Ages, and discussion of its implications for the understanding of space and place in our own culture.

Prerequisite: One course in the History of Christianity; completion of 10 full-course credits | Recommended preparation: SMC200Y1

SMC423H1 Topics in the Theology of Culture I

A seminar course engaging in theological reflection on and response to the shifting cultural realities of the twenty-first century. Topics for close examination may include: post-modernity, home and homelessness, and mass popular culture.

Prerequisite: Completion of 10 full-course credits | Recommended preparation: SMC200Y1 / SMC208Y1 / SMC305H1 / SMC330Y1 / SMC426H1

SMC424H1 Topics in the Theology of Culture II

A seminar course engaging in theological reflection on and response to the shifting cultural realities of the twenty-first century. Topics for close examination may include: post-modernity, home and homelessness, and mass popular culture.

Prerequisite: completion of 10 full-course credits | Recommended preparation: SMC200Y1 / SMC208Y1 / SMC305H1 / SMC330Y1 / SMC426H1

SMC425H1Uses of the Bible in the Middle Ages

An examination of the use of the Bible in the mediaeval period (500-1500) as source of motifs in art and architecture, provider of stories for poetry and drama, authority in legal and political debate, and tool for teaching and preaching.

Prerequisite: One course in mediaeval history, art or literature; knowledge of the biblical text; completion of 10 full-course credits

SMC426H1 The Social Justice Seminar

A research seminar to explore the foundational principles and historical applications of Catholic social teaching since Rerum novarum. Special emphasis placed on scriptural texts, magisterial documents, and contemporary case studies. Integral to the course is a major paper based on primary source research.

Prerequisite: SMC203Y1 / SMC103Y1; completion of 10 full-course credits | Recommended preparation: SMC309H1 / RLG336H1

SMC428H1 The Spiritual in Modern Art

An examination of key moments and figures in the recent history of the visual arts in Western culture and especially in Canada in which religious and spiritual themes surface in new and surprising ways. The course includes a study of works in the Donovan Collection at St. Michaels College.

Recommended preparation: SMC200Y1

SMC429H1 Comparative Theology Seminar

An introduction to comparative theology and comparative theologies, with special attention to their close interrelation and emergence with comparative religion and religious studies in the modern period.

Prerequisite: permission of the instructor

SMC432H1 Christianity and Science on Human Sexuality

A seminar addressing diverse and sometimes conflicting scientific, philosophical, and theological approaches to human sexuality, with a special focus on Habermas and compatibilism. Includes a systematic exploration of the ontology of the sexed human body and transsexuality, the metaphysics of human sexuality, and issues related to a science of orgasm.

Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor | Recommended preparation: PHL243H1 / SMC230Y1

SMC433Y1 / SMC434H1Independent Studies in Christianity and Culture

An independent research project to be proposed by the student and supervised by a Christianity and Culture faculty member. The student, in consultation with the faculty member, may choose either a one-term (H) or a two-term (Y) project.

Prerequisite: Ten full courses; permission of Program Director

SMC454H1 Topics in Eastern Christian Studies

An advanced course on the historical development, social and cultural forms and / or major theological writings of the various traditions of Eastern Christianity. Topics for close examination may include: Iconography; Byzantine & Slavic Christianity; Modern Orthodox Thought.

Prerequisite: Completion of ten full-course credits | Recommended preparation: SMC203Y1 / SMC208Y1 / NMC270H1and / or RLG331H1

SMC456H1 Indian Christianity

An advanced study of the historical development, major theological writings and contemporary ethnographic studies of diverse Christian traditions in South Asia. Topics to be covered include the legacy of Thomas Christianity, Hindu-Christian dialogue, the Christian ashram movement, liturgical inculturation and religious hybridity.

Prerequisite: Completion of 10 full-course credits | Recommended preparation: SMC203Y1 / SMC204H1 / RLG203Y1 and / or RLG205Y1

Christianity and Culture: Cross-Listed Courses