RELG/HIST 312:

Religion in America 

Dr. Hannah Schell • Monmouth College • Spring 2010

Class meets on Tues & Thurs 9:30-10:45 am in the Wells Room

Course Home Page

The story of American religious history is an important narrative about our country’s identity.  This semester, we will focus on the fascinating story of Christianity in America – the role it has played in shaping the culture, society and politics of the country as well as how it has been changed by factors unique to the American context. It is a story of division and denominationalism, revival and reactions to revival, and accommodation and thoughtful challenge to modernity.  Students will be exposed to some of the recent scholarship in the lively and thriving field of the study of religion in America. This course will be taught as a seminar, with corresponding expectations regarding student participation and commitment to the course.  

Course Materials

• Course syllabus

• Course Overview

• Schedule for Part I of course (Great Awakening)

• Assignment for Paper 1 (on the Great Awakening)

• Details regarding class debate (on the Great Awakening)

• Schedule for Part II of course (Reform)

• Schedule of Discussion Leaders for Part II (Reform)

• Assignment for Paper 2 (on Reform)

• Schedule for Part III of course (Crisis)

• Schedule for Part IV (Dissent)

• Assignment for Paper 3 (on Crisis)

• Assignment for Paper 5 (Mormonism) due 5/4

• Details (Guidelines and Requirements) for Final Papers and Presentations (due May 10th at 9 am)