[Content] Exploring the ecclesiastical transformations of the Or‧thodox Churches in the Balkans, this curriculum traces develop‧ments from the advent of nationalism to the end of the Cold War. It highlights the emergence of national Orthodox churches within the Ottoman Empire and Austro-Hungary, detailing their distinctive fea‧tures and operational modes. Further examination reveals how these Churches realigned with changes in the political map of the region. Special attention is given to the interaction between politics and religion, with a focus on the churches’ responses to modernity, nationalism, wars, totalitarian regimes, and atheism.

[Objectives] The course aims to provide students with a com‧prehensive understanding of the critical transformations within the Orthodox Churches in the Balkans during the 19th and 20th cen‧turies. It will explore the impact of significant political and social changes on religious institutions and their broader societal roles.