Luther and the West
In this course we will discuss the history of some ideas that have been hugely influential in the modern west and that were taken out to the rest of the world. The discussion centers on an extraordinary and historically important figure, a sixteenth century German man named Martin Luther. Luther is recognized today as the originator of many of the most significant ideas that continue to affect and shape who we as modern people are and how we see the world and ourselves for better and for worse.In the first section, we will explore why Luther thought the Bible was the most important volume for everyone to have and read. Included here will be a careful consideration of Luther’s anti-Judaism, which contributed to western antisemitism and some of the greatest horrors of the twentieth century.
In the second section, we will talk about the idea of freedom and how Luther’s understanding of freedom in Christ affected the way modern thinkers understood what it means to be human in community. Important in this section is the consequential contradiction between freedom and slavery in western thought and their co-existence in western societies.
The third section will be all about the many complicated relations between religion and politics.
NOTE: Students wishing to sign up for free access to all instructional course content should click on the “Sign-In” button in the upper right hand corner. Those who wish to take the course and complete a certificate that requires payment, please click the Enroll button on the left side of this page.
None
Syllabus
Syllabus - What you will learn from this course
Week 1
Luther, the Bible, and Antijudaism - Part 1
Week 2
Luther, the Bible, and Antijudaism - Part 2
Week 3
Freedom: Self and Community - Part 1
Week 4
Freedom: Self and Community - Part 2
Week 5
Religion and Politics: The Two Swords - Part 1
Week 6
Religion and Politics: The Two Swords - Part 2
FAQ
When will I have access to the lectures and assignments?
Access to lectures and assignments depends on your type of enrollment. If you take a course in audit mode, you will be able to see most course materials for free. To access graded assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience, during or after your audit. If you don't see the audit option:
What will I get if I purchase the Certificate?
When you purchase a Certificate you get access to all course materials, including graded assignments. Upon completing the course, your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile. If you only want to read and view the course content, you can audit the course for free.
Is financial aid available?
Yes. In select learning programs, you can apply for financial aid or a scholarship if you can’t afford the enrollment fee. If fin aid or scholarship is available for your learning program selection, you’ll find a link to apply on the description page.
How do I sign up to take this course for free?
Students wishing to sign up for free access to all instructional course content should click on the "Sign-In" button in the upper right hand corner. Those who wish to take the course and complete a certificate that requires payment, please click the Enroll button on the left side of this page.
Reviews
I really enjoyed the course, and think it is very well thought out and paced. I appreciate the access to additional reading materials.
Fun and interesting course. I was exposed to info all new to me. Thanks.
An excellent course! I found the material interesting and informative. The professor was keen and easy to understand. I loved this course.
Very interesting class. Very well presented. Enjoyed it and got good information.
