2026-2027

Patristics: Sources and Methods

The course is offered as a standalone course. It is an elective course in the one-year Master's Program in Eastern Christian Studies.

The course provides a general understanding and knowledge of Christianity's first thousand years. Theological trends and individual Church Fathers are covered, as well as their philosophical background. Particular emphasis is placed on methods and sources. The course explores the most important textual sources for early Christian doctrine, where they can be found and how to read them. Historical-critical methods used in patristic studies are also presented.

Apply in Swedish Apply in English
Learning objectives

By the end of the course, students are expected to be able to:

Knowledge and understanding:

  • relate theological trends to individual Church Fathers
  • describe general theological subjects in current research connected to the first millennium with significant depth
  • describe the range of methodological approaches to the study of the first millennium of church history used by scholars today

Competencies and skills:

  • independently outline a timeline for the first millennium of Eastern Christianity, from various perspectives, identify general patterns, even with limited material, and discuss this in a seminar context
  • demonstrate competence in using patristic resources and historical-critical methods to formulate and solve academic problems, within a given timeframe

Assessment and approach:

  • select and argue for appropriate methods for the study of specific patristic sources and the limitations such methods place on the study object, from a disciplinary, social and ethical perspective
  • assess and argue for the limitations of research, the need for ongoing research within the field, and individual responsibility for how it is used.
Requirements

Courses equivalent to 90 credits from the First Cycle, including 60 credits in Religious Studies/Theology, or Eastern Christian Studies, or equivalent competence. Proficiency in English equivalent to the Swedish upper secondary course English 6.

Course Literature

See course literature for a list of mandatory reading.

Syllabus

See the syllabus for further information.