Patristic Studies: Theories and Methods

Patristic Studies have flourished in the 20th century across different denominations. This course introduces sources and methods in patristic studies. The course takes a chronological stance, but with a thematic focus on the understanding of tradition. The course explores the most important sources of the early Christian doctrines, where they can be found, and how to read them. Historical critical methods employed in the Patristic Studies are also presented.At the end of the course, the student is expected to be able to: - demonstrate knowledge of the major themes in patristic studies - demonstrate an understanding of the general themes of theology among the Church fathers and mothers - be able to make use of patristic resources and historical critical methods - be able to read and interpret patristic texts, with the methods provided in the course