THEO46330: The Theology of Thomas Aquinas: Selected Topics (DL)

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• THEO44630

• To familiarize students with key features of Thomas Aquinass thought and its context.
• Through the work and influence of Aquinas, enable students to critically reflect on key theological issues, such as the relation between theology and philosophy, creation, salvation, the understanding of God and the human person, the Christian life of virtue.

• This module will offer an in-depth exposition of key aspects of Aquinass theology, such as, for instance, how Aquinas conceives of Sacra Doctrina and its relation to philosophy; the divine attributes and the Trinitarian understanding of God; theory of analogy; creation; the human person as made in the image of God; the Christian life of virtue; salvation in Christ; the active and contemplative lives; sanctification). It will also consider the sources, influence and legacy of Aquinass theology.

Subject-specific Knowledge:

• A systematic understanding of key aspects of the thought of Aquinas, through exposure to primary texts and engagement with relevant secondary literature.
• A critical evaluation of the achievements and limitations of Aquinass thought in light of our contemporary theological concerns and issues.
• A broader understanding of the development of Christian thought in the medieval period (and scholasticism in particular), and of the way that Aquinass thought is shaped by its historical context (including his Dominican calling and setting in the world of universities).
• An insight into the influence of Aquinass thought on subsequent Christian thinking

Subject-specific Skills:

• An ability to read, interpret and evaluate critically the thought of Thomas Aquinas on the basis of primary and secondary sources.

Key Skills:

• Development of analytical insight, the ability to engage critically with philosophical and theological arguments.
• Ability to grasp, summarize, and critically evaluate concepts, arguments and knowledge in written form.

• The module is delivered via online learning, divided into 10 units, with specially produced resources and a structured path leading the student through each unit. Resources vary across units but include video or audio content (supported by the provision of transcripts), directed reading, reflective activities and optional online seminars. The central component of work in most units will be the guided reading of, and reflection on, texts of Thomas.
• Optional online synchronous seminars offer an opportunity for students to deepen their engagement with and theological concepts in conversation with one another and the tutor.
• Formative assessment is designed to ensure early engagement with tutor and feedback to students, and to enable students to deepen their understanding and critical analysis of key texts and debates through written exploration.
• Tutorials are also designed to ensure early engagement, as well as to build the tutor/student relationship.
• In addition to the tutorials, the tutor will provide online office hours on a weekly or bi-weekly basis.
• The summative essay assesses subject-specific knowledge and understanding by engaging carefully with primary texts and secondary literature.The oral examination enables the student to demonstrate the breadth of the knowledge they have gained from the module.

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