Introduction to the Course:
People have believed in unseen powers for thousands of years. Approximately 5,000 years ago the Egyptians, Hittites, Phoenicians, and even even Scandinavians worshiped a higher, unseen power. Once the early people discovered that there were places beyond the lands that they lived in, adventurers went exploring and took their beliefs with them to share with others in far away places.
Leaders emerged to lead their people into battle but also to provide them with gods who would offer help and guidance in the difficult process of living their lives. These gods demanded obedience and worship. When things went well, people thanked the gods; when things went badly, they looked for help and forgiveness. Sacrifices were offered, either in thanks or to persuade the wrath of the gods.
People who believe in the same religion often become a part of a special community that often has a focus on helping others. All the major leaders of religious faiths teach, in their own ways, the Golden Rule - Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.
In this class I will give you information that should make you really enjoy this class. I will not be giving you any of my personal opinions or sharing with you anything about my beliefs. My hope is that some of you may change your opinions about certain groups after you see the facts that may surprise you.
Leaders emerged to lead their people into battle but also to provide them with gods who would offer help and guidance in the difficult process of living their lives. These gods demanded obedience and worship. When things went well, people thanked the gods; when things went badly, they looked for help and forgiveness. Sacrifices were offered, either in thanks or to persuade the wrath of the gods.
People who believe in the same religion often become a part of a special community that often has a focus on helping others. All the major leaders of religious faiths teach, in their own ways, the Golden Rule - Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.
In this class I will give you information that should make you really enjoy this class. I will not be giving you any of my personal opinions or sharing with you anything about my beliefs. My hope is that some of you may change your opinions about certain groups after you see the facts that may surprise you.
BLESSED VIRGIN MARY EXERCISEPlease indicate which (if any) of the following images are similar to the one that first came to your mind. Please offer your reflections in the discussion board regarding the source or sources of the image that emerged for you.
What three words best represent your response to this depiction? Jot down your words for your own reference, then read the following articles from the New York Times about the controversies surrounding the painting when it was shown at the Brooklyn Museum of Art in New York, USA in 1999.
About the Controversy: “Anger Over Work Evokes Anti-Catholic Shadow, and Mary's Power as Icon”
Ofili’s Response to the Controversy: “Chris Ofili: British Artist Holds Fast to His Inspiration”
Did hearing more about the content and context of the painting impact your perception? If so, how? If not, why not?
Finally, read this recent article from the BBC: Chris Ofili: “Can Art Still Shock Us?”
Please post your reflections on the Ofili controversy and your own opinions regarding his painting “Blessed Virgin Mary.” How does your own “situatedness” shape your response? As always, please also respond to at least two of your peers. Please post your thoughts on our Schoology page!
About the Controversy: “Anger Over Work Evokes Anti-Catholic Shadow, and Mary's Power as Icon”
Ofili’s Response to the Controversy: “Chris Ofili: British Artist Holds Fast to His Inspiration”
Did hearing more about the content and context of the painting impact your perception? If so, how? If not, why not?
Finally, read this recent article from the BBC: Chris Ofili: “Can Art Still Shock Us?”
Please post your reflections on the Ofili controversy and your own opinions regarding his painting “Blessed Virgin Mary.” How does your own “situatedness” shape your response? As always, please also respond to at least two of your peers. Please post your thoughts on our Schoology page!