Mar 28, 2024  
Course Catalog 2008-2009 
    
Course Catalog 2008-2009 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

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CLAS 201 - Magic & Mystery Ancient World


Next Offered: 2009-2010
Semester Offered: First Semester
Credits (Range): 3 Hours
Attribute: 3 SS

This course surveys the evidence for magic and the occult in antiquity, focusing on the traditions of ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome. Topics covered include theoretical approaches to magic, practitioners (witches, sorcerers, and priests), magical objects (curse tablets, voodoo dolls, and amulets), magical words (spells and prayers), ancient mystery cults, and the interaction between early Christianity and magic. Special attention will be paid to how ancient individuals interacted with the unseen world in their daily lives, and when and how they employed the services of professional magicians. Readings of ancient sources in translation and classroom discussion. Enrollment limit: 55.
Instructor: A. Wilburn



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