Semester.ly

Johns Hopkins University | AS.130.346

Introduction to the History of Rabbinic Literature

3.0

credits

Average Course Rating

(4.5)

Broadly surveying classic rabbinic literature, including the Talmud and its commentaries, the legal codes and the response, this seminar explores the immanent as well as the external factors that shaped the development of this literature, the seminal role of this literature in Jewish self-definition and self-perception, and the role of this literature in pre-modern and modern Jewish culture.

Spring 2015

Professor: David Katz

(4.5)

The best aspects of the course were the interesting material, knowledgeable professor, and small class size. Students would have preferred more opportunities for class participation and clearer guidelines regarding assignments. Lectures were hard to take notes on as the material did not follow a clear path. Suggestions for improvement also included providing students with a more structured course outline. Prospective students are not required to have any previous experience with Rabbinic literature or Jewish history.