Creation, Fall, Redemption, and Restoration in Ancient Greece

This course will study literature, history, and theology by taking one work of Ancient Greek literature from each of the four genres of the Great Tradition and studying their plots through the conventions of that genre as well as an in depth look at the worldview each of these works of literature presents contrasted with the Christian worldview.

Course Objectives

• Understand the four genres of the Great Tradition and be able to identify the conventions of those genres within a story
• Understand plot and symbolism as used in prominent writings of the Ancient Greeks
• Identify and articulate the worldview of the Ancient Greeks through their storytelling
• Compare and contrast the Ancient Greek worldview with the Christian worldview
• Use literature to understand the practical implications and importance of worldview analysis in order to love Christ and others better

Texts (Download Syllabus for Links to Course Texts)

• Hesiod, Theogony (Provided)
• Herodotus, The Histories (Excerpts, Provided)
• Greg Gilbert, Why Trust the Bible?
• Peter Leithart, Heroes of the City of Man
• Homer, The Odyssey
• Orlando Saer, Big God
• Gerald Bray, God Has Spoken (Excerpts, Provided)
• Mythology, Edith Hamilton (Provided)
• Sophocles, King Oedipus (from The Theban Plays)
• Aristophanes, The Clouds (from Four Plays by Aristophanes)
• Aristotle, Poetics
• Nate Picowicz, How to Eat Your Bible