B9668 – Johannine Literature

Unit Code

B9668

Unit Name

Johannine Literature (postgraduate)

Unit Weighting

9 Credit Points

Type of Unit

Specialised

Prerequisites, corequisites or exclusions

9 Credit Points in Biblical Studies (i.e Intro to New Testament)

Academic Staff

Prof. Edith Humphrey Ph.D., McGill University; B.A., Victoria College, University of Toronto; A.R.C.T., Royal Conservatory of Toronto

Curriculum Objectives

This course unit builds upon the knowledge and skills learned in the pre-requisite units. It examines the historical context, literary forms and theological content of the Gospel and Letters of John, and their application to a range of spiritual and pastoral concerns.

Learning Outcomes

At the end of this unit, students will be able to:
1. assess the historical, cultural and religious background of the Johannine community
2. identify the principal literary forms in the Gospel and letters of John and show how they communicate their theological content
3. demonstrate well-developed critical exegetical skills in written essays on selected passages from the Fourth Gospel
4. integrate significant secondary literature into critical studies of the Johannine corpus
5. apply insights gained from the Johannine Literature to contemporary Christian preaching, teaching and spirituality

Content:

1. Introduction: issues of authorship, date, relationship of the Gospel with the Synoptics
2. History and religious perspective of the Johannine community.
3. Distinctive literary style, imagery and narrative features of the Fourth Gospel
4. Key theological themes of the Johannine tradition
5. Exegesis of selected passages from the Fourth Gospel