FREEDOM THEO W/MARTIN LUTHER (HSST-4450)

We will examine a selection of Martin Luther’s works, employing different hermeneutical approaches 1) to re-engage Luther towards in-depth understanding of his theological motifs, arguments, contributions, and shortcomings in light of his own context, and 2) to re-engage Luther theologically with contemporary questions in mind, particularly focusing on the topic of “freedom”. A selection of contemporary interpreters will be consulted. In addition, the class provides first-hand familiarity with Luther’s 16th century texts, a lens for critical assessment of the interpretative traditions and trends in Luther scholarship, practice in critical reading of historical texts, and immersion in constructive Christian theology with a focus on the highly relevant topic of “freedom”. [30 Max Enrollment]