Intro Theravada Buddhist Trad

Catalog description

Taught by GTU/Institute of Buddhist Studies This course will survey the traditions of Buddhism commonly referred to as Theravada, with reference to their doctrine, development, and concrete localizations throughout South and Southeast Asia, as well as the contemporary West. We will also interrogate the shifting representations of these traditions that emerge in their interface with modernity. The course will incorporate both foundational primary texts and representative secondary scholarship in an attempt to broadly chart the living and historical dimensions of these traditions and the terms of their contemporary study. Seminar with discussion and lectures. Final paper and class field trip to a local temple required. Some knowledge of Buddhism helpful but not required. [15 max enrollment; Auditors with faculty permission]