Section outline
- Course Overview
- Overview
Overview
Course Title: Coptic Monasticism
Level: Certificate
Course Objective:
This is the first academic course on Monasticism taught in a Coptic Scientific Institute. It covers the monastic tradition before St Anthony the Great and the subsequent centuries. The course stems from the Master degree thesis produced by HG Bishop Makar as part of his MSc degree. Candidates studying this course are expected to gain very comprehensive knowledge on the concept, history and practices of monasticism.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
1. Examine the Lives and Writings of Monastic Fathers: Analyse the lives, teachings, and writings of prominent Coptic monastic fathers, such as Saint Antony the Great, Saint Pachomius, and Saint Shenouda the Archimandrite, gaining insight into their spiritual wisdom, ascetic practices, and contributions to Coptic monasticism.
2. Evaluate Monastic Life from the 4th to the 10th Century: Evaluate the development and evolution of Coptic monasticism from the 4th to the 10th century, exploring key historical events, movements, and developments that shaped the monastic landscape within the Coptic Orthodox Church during this period.
3. Examine the Global Spread of Coptic Monasticism: Investigate the dissemination of Coptic monasticism beyond Egypt to other regions of the world, including Ethiopia, Nubia, Syria, and Europe, analysing the factors and mechanisms that facilitated the exportation and adaptation of Coptic monastic practices and spirituality in diverse cultural contexts.
4. Critically Assess the Contemporary Study of Coptic Monastic Heritage: Critically evaluate contemporary approaches to the study and interpretation of Coptic monastic heritage, considering methodological challenges, scholarly debates, and interdisciplinary perspectives, and reflecting on the relevance and applicability of Coptic monasticism to contemporary spiritual and academic contexts.
5. Synthesise Insights for Spiritual Formation: Synthesise insights from the study of Coptic monasticism to inform personal spiritual formation and Christian discipleship, exploring ways in which the ascetic ideals, communal practices, and spiritual disciplines of Coptic monasticism can enrich and deepen one's spiritual journey within the context of the Coptic Orthodox tradition.
6. Engage in Constructive Dialogue: Engage in constructive dialogue and critical reflection with peers and instructors on key themes, issues, and questions related to Coptic monasticism, demonstrating the ability to articulate informed perspectives, engage respectfully with diverse viewpoints, and contribute meaningfully to academic discourse within the online learning community.
Course Structure:
1- The monastic fathers and their writings.
2- The course addresses the monastic life from the 4th- 10th century.
3- Discussing how monasticism was exported from Egypt to the outer world.
4- Critically searching the ideal way of studying such monastic heritage today
Assessment:
- Two term exams to evaluate overall comprehension and proficiency.
Prerequisites:
GCSE degree, high school diploma or equivalent.
Delivery Method:
The course will be delivered entirely online through a learning management system. All lectures are delivered by Zoom. Participants will have access to recorded lecture videos, reading materials, and discussion forum on the course website.
Duration: October 2023-June 2024
Certificate:
Upon successful completion of the course and passing the final exam, candidates the TEACH certificate in Coptic Monasticism. The certificate will only be received upon completion and passing of the two term exams.
