Mon, Sep 24 @ 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Anthropology 150

Introduction to Symbolism

The purpose of these lessons is for students to be exposed to many of the ways humans communicate using symbols and other non-literal forms of communicating.  Students will participate in a guided discussion in class, with the instructor exposing them to various methods of symbolic communication and giving examples of some interpretations of it, while students begin analyzing and exploring their own perceptions of the material.

Class Description

This class will focus on the use of symbols within religion.  Its purpose is not to delve into the teachings of any given religion in detail, but rather to analyze the symbols used within them, and the messaging intended by them, as well as the evolution of their symbols over time, in some cases.  Students will be exposed to the symbols of some well known, and some lesser known religions, and shown the history of their evolution, and given a chance to dissect and discuss their meanings themselves.

Homework

Homework, as always, is due by the beginning of class, so either hand it into me then, or email it to me before then.  For today’s lecture, you need to create a symbol that communicates your vision of what the afterlife is, or if you are atheist, the lack there of.  Include with it a brief description of the symbol, and what it is trying to communicate.