M E STD M50B
Origins of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam
Description: (Same as Ancient Near East M50B and Religion M50.) Lecture, three hours; discussion, one hour. Examination of three major monotheisms of Western cultures--Judaism, Christianity, and Islam--historically and comparatively. Development, teachings, and ritual practices of each tradition up to and including medieval period. Composition and development of various sacred texts, highlighting key themes and ideas within different historical and literary strata of traditions, such as mechanisms of revelation, struggle for religious authority, and common theological issues such as origin of evil and status of nonbelievers. Letter grading.
Units: 5.0
Units: 5.0
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Most Helpful Review
Winter 2023 - Take this class for an amazing GE!! This class was a fantastic introduction to Middle Eastern religions. I came in with little to no experience in the field, and left with a strong understanding of the three major religions in the region. The course was structured very well, with regular, low-maintenance lectures and weekly discussions. These sections were very laid-back and TAs were very receptive to concerns about grades and / or any other coursework. Exams were straightforward and did not require large amounts of studying. We also had an essay, which I feel was graded very fairly, as did many of my peers. Professor Bakhos, in particular, became a long-time mentor to myself and others long after the class ended. She would often meet with students and consistently made sure that we felt the class was being taught fairly and effectively. It is evident that she is a true professional in the field, and cares deeply about the learning process of her students. Overall, I can't recommend this class enough, as it ended up being one of my favorite courses at UCLA. You won't regret it!
Winter 2023 - Take this class for an amazing GE!! This class was a fantastic introduction to Middle Eastern religions. I came in with little to no experience in the field, and left with a strong understanding of the three major religions in the region. The course was structured very well, with regular, low-maintenance lectures and weekly discussions. These sections were very laid-back and TAs were very receptive to concerns about grades and / or any other coursework. Exams were straightforward and did not require large amounts of studying. We also had an essay, which I feel was graded very fairly, as did many of my peers. Professor Bakhos, in particular, became a long-time mentor to myself and others long after the class ended. She would often meet with students and consistently made sure that we felt the class was being taught fairly and effectively. It is evident that she is a true professional in the field, and cares deeply about the learning process of her students. Overall, I can't recommend this class enough, as it ended up being one of my favorite courses at UCLA. You won't regret it!
Most Helpful Review
Winter 2019 - Pregill is one of those professors who you either love or hate. He made dumb jokes in class and he thought he was funnier than he was. However, this guy is a great teacher. If you pay attention and take notes, this class is easy. The problem is you have to do this for 75 minutes straight because he goes through a lot. There wasn't much outside reading but listen to what he says and what the TAs say and you should be fine. It's not an easy A but if you want to get an A it is very possible.
Winter 2019 - Pregill is one of those professors who you either love or hate. He made dumb jokes in class and he thought he was funnier than he was. However, this guy is a great teacher. If you pay attention and take notes, this class is easy. The problem is you have to do this for 75 minutes straight because he goes through a lot. There wasn't much outside reading but listen to what he says and what the TAs say and you should be fine. It's not an easy A but if you want to get an A it is very possible.
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