THEO3112 Synoptic Studies: Engaging the Gospels

This topic is designed to examine the Synoptic Gospels (Mark, Matthew or Luke) using socio-cultural, historical and literary approaches. With particular focus on a specified Gospel, it will compare the distinctive witness of the three canonical Gospels and examine questions that arise from the exegesis of key passages. It may also consider the synoptic tradition found in non-canonical sources, such as the Gospel of Thomas. Through a range of exegetical methods the topic will look at literary design of the specified gospel and will explore the connections between these writings and contemporary issues.

This topic aims to support students to gain insight into the relevance and meaning of the historical and socio-cultural context of a specified Gospel, to understand its narrative dynamic, and further develop skills in the analysis of biblical texts.

1. Evaluate a range of theoretical perspectives to Synoptic Gospel interpretation
2. Critically analyse selected texts through the application of exegetical methods
3. Evaluate the contexts and communities that shaped the work of the Gospel writers, and synthesise a variety of source materials
4. Evaluate the impact of these issues on contemporary understandings of Gospel texts