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Department of the Study of Religions

Goddesses and Constructions of Gender in Hinduism

Course Code:
15PSRH031
Status:
Course Not Running 2013/14
Unit value:
0.5
Year of study:
Any
The course deals with the historical and cultural contexts of Goddess worship in Hinduism by drawing on philosophical (Samkhya), mythological (Purana) and theological texts (Tantra) and their ritual and devotional contexts. The relationship of notions of female divinity and power to constructions of gender and kinship will be explored.

Different types of gendered alliances between goddesses and gods, demons, kings, male or female devotees respectively will be analysed. This includes the monotheistic interpretation of a goddess as the one and only “highest being”. Theoretical approaches (psychological, anthropological etc.) to gender and goddess worship and their relevance for understanding Hindu concepts will be considered.

Objectives and learning outcomes of the course

On completion of the course students should:

  • understand the historical and cultural context of Goddess worship in Hinduism and its diversification in different religious traditions and social contexts;
  • be able to discuss the relationship between philosophical and mythological themes connected with female power and social constructions of gender and kinship;
  • be able to analyse different textual (and visual) sources on Goddesses and gender relationships;
  • be able to distinguish between (western) theoretical approaches to gender and indigenous discourses on divinity, kinship and power;
  • be able to assess the validity of theories of gender with regard to impact of Goddess worship in Hindu religion and society;
  • be able to critically use different literary sources and its academic interpretation;
  • be able to write essays that utilize the theoretical approaches and the source materials presented in the course.

Method of assessment

Coursework: one 6-7,000 word essay. Assessment: essay 100%.