Critical understanding of the origins of the concept of “Abrahamic religions.” The primary objective is to make students aware of what the continuous and multifaceted call for Abraham has historically entailed within the two-thousand-year Christian history and, more broadly, in the Western context - from antiquity to the contemporary era. Particular attention will be given to how the figure of Abraham has shaped processes of self-definition, mutual perception, intellectual exchange, and interreligious relations - whether peaceful or conflictual - among Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, especially within the European and Mediterranean frameworks.
Course Prerequisites
Prior knowledge of the history of Christianity - and, where applicable, of Judaism and Islam - is welcome, though not required.
Teaching Methods
The course includes instructor-led introductions to the historical contexts, key issues, topics, and works related to the scholarly discussion surrounding the figure of Abraham. Students will engage in the analysis of selected sources (provided in Italian translation), and are expected to read, comment on, and actively participate in class discussions.
Assessment Methods
Oral examination. For attending students: The exam will be based on notes from lectures and materials provided by the lecturer. For non-attending students: The exam will be based on three books selected from a list of publications, to be requested from the lecturer (davide.scotto@unipv.it) to agree on the exam program.
Texts
1) Notes from lectures and materials provided by the lecturer. 2) The Oxford Handbook of the Abrahamic Religions, ed. by Adam J. Silverstein and Guy G. Stroumsa, ass. editor Moshe Blidstein, Oxford, Oxford University Press, 2015.
Contents
The course addresses a range of exegetical, theological, and political issues arising from the historical debate surrounding the figure of Abraham - issues through which the Christian tradition has sought to define itself in close engagement with Jewish and Islamic thought. A diverse array of sources will be examined, reflecting these debates from antiquity to the contemporary era. In addition to foundational scriptures (Tanakh, Christian Bible, and Qur’an), students will explore medieval theological literature, early modern works by theologians, humanists, and philosophers, and twentieth-century orientalist, pastoral, and psychoanalytic discourse, where the call for Abraham - marked by both continuity and rupture - resurfaces and remains central.
Course Language
Italian
More information
All sources discussed during lectures will also be provided in Italian translation.
