Universität Wien

010092 VU Astronomy and Religion in East Asia (2019S)

3.00 ECTS (2.00 SWS), SPL 1 - Katholische Theologie
Continuous assessment of course work

Registration/Deregistration

Note: The time of your registration within the registration period has no effect on the allocation of places (no first come, first served).

Details

Language: English

Lecturers

Classes (iCal) - next class is marked with N

  • Monday 03.06. 09:00 - 13:00 Seminarraum 2 (Kath) Schenkenstraße EG
  • Tuesday 04.06. 09:00 - 13:00 Seminarraum 2 (Kath) Schenkenstraße EG
  • Wednesday 05.06. 09:00 - 13:00 Seminarraum 1 (Kath) Schenkenstraße EG
  • Thursday 06.06. 09:00 - 13:00 Seminarraum 2 (Kath) Schenkenstraße EG
  • Friday 07.06. 09:00 - 13:00 Seminarraum 2 (Kath) Schenkenstraße EG

Information

Aims, contents and method of the course

Aims, contents and method of the course

Peoples from East Asia believe that human destiny and state affairs depend on Heaven. Celestial bodies have been observed since ancient times, and their movement predicted fateful changes in the Subcelestial realm. Sky maps have preserved the ancient Asian philosophy, religion, state, and social structure, as well as remarkable astronomical knowledge.

The course will describe the notion of Heaven and celestial bodies in East Asia from the ancient times to the present day. Special attention will be given to the beliefs related to the influence of the celestial bodies on earthly affairs. Esoteric Buddhism, where this belief is central, will be reviewed in the course. The lectures will focus on sky maps representing a projection of the state structure in the imperial capital.

Assessment and permitted materials

Assessment and permitted materials

Materials will be provided during lectures.

Minimum requirements and assessment criteria

Minimum requirements and assessment criteria

The course is directed towards everybody interested in Asia, Asian philosophy, religious beliefs, and folklore traditions. No preliminary knowledge on the subject is required. Attendance and active participation during lectures are required.

Examination topics

Examination topics

The exam is in the form of short written questions and exercises on the material taught in the respective lectures. Exercises are given after each lecture, i.e. five times during the course.

Reading list


Association in the course directory

066 800 M02 Religionsgeschichtliche Spezialveranstaltung

Last modified: Mo 07.09.2020 15:27