University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 20

ECTS credits : 10

Level : SCQF level 8

Semester: 2

Planned timetable: 2.00 pm Mon, Tue, Thu

This module will explore key themes in the organisation, practice and beliefs of the early and medieval church, focusing mostly on the period from the first to the ninth centuries. Among the topics covered in the first part of the module will be the early church's encounter with the Roman empire, martyrdom, debates over truth, orthodoxy and heresy, the impact of Constantine's conversion and the relationship between paganism and Christianity. The later part of the module covers the coming of Christianity to the British Isles, and especially Scotland, and themes such as the cult of saints, monasticism, pastoral care, worship and pilgrimage. Weekly seminars will involve engagement with key primary texts from the period.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 3 lectures and 1 tutorial.

Scheduled learning hours: 43

Guided independent study hours: 157

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 2-hour Written Examination = 50%, Coursework = 50%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 50%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 50%

Re-assessment: 3-hour Written Examination = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr W P Hyland
Module teaching staff: Dr W Hyland
Module coordinator email wph3@st-andrews.ac.uk