The Religions of the Native Americans [REL 3573.29212] (Course Syllabus) By Matthew J Pereira

https://www.academia.edu/69186687/The_Religions_of_the_Native_Americans_REL_3573_29212_Course_Syllabus_?rhid=37247802151&swp=rr-rw-wc-72733233&nav_from=4927c641-5131-4cc0-8499-92b4517ec553 In this upper-level survey course on religions and spiritualities of the Native Americans, we will practice the central disciplines in the field of Religious Studies, including the interrelated practices of: listening, reading, analyzing, reflecting and discussing a diverse range of interrelated topics placed in dialogue with varied perspectives from both practitioners and scholars (and scholars-practitioners) of Native American religions and spiritualities. The course begins with an introduction to current approaches and issues related to the study of Native American religions and spiritualities, followed by an historical outline and concludes with reflections on theoretical and methodological issues including the question of representation. Rather than arguing for a normative, central or dominant account of the religions and spiritualities of the Native Americans, we will seek to develop a balanced approach that seeks a deeper appreciation of the interconnectedness and diversity across the religions and spiritualities of the Native Americans. Committed to an integrative assessment of the intersections between the religions of Native Americans in dialogue with historical and contemporary challenges, we will employ approaches and interpretive frameworks from within the fields of historical studies, law and jurisprudence, ecology, sciences, archeology, gender studies, post-colonial studies, theoretical perspectives and religious studies. "Our religion is the traditions of our ancestors-the dreams of our old men, given to them in solemn hours of night by the Great Spirit; and the visions of our sachems (medicine people); and it is written in the hearts of the people."-Chief Seattle (Dwamish), 1786-1866 Two (2) Required Textbooks: These two (2) textbooks should be purchased: ...