An introduction to the Bible at the intersection of queer theory, biblical interpretation, and the historical study of the ancient Middle East. Through an examination of queer readings of the biblical canon and the canon of contemporary queer theory, the class explores the social construction of gender and examines how people in the biblical world and ancient Middle East maintained and contested gender roles. Using primary texts and iconographic evidence, we will consider not only the complex interaction between the categories of gender and sexual orientation, but also how contemporary expectations about “biological sex”, patriarchal structures, and the biblical world impede our capacity to understand the biblical text, explore the experiential varieties of gender in the ancient world, and appreciate the inherent queerness of gender. This is an introductory course; no previous knowledge of the Bible is required or presumed.

Units: 1

Max Enrollment: 20

Crosslisted Courses:

Prerequisites: None.

Instructor: Jarrard

Distribution Requirements: REP - Religion, Ethics, and Moral Philosophy

Typical Periods Offered: Every other year

Semesters Offered this Academic Year: Not Offered

Notes: