Objectives: To explore the theological principles that undergird the Catholic imagination and consider specific examples of pieces inspired by the Catholic imagination.

Learning outcomes : By the course’s end students will be able to: a) understand and discuss foundational theological concepts like creation, incarnation, glory, and beauty; b) analyze works of art in light of those concepts; c) explain in writing how different cultural products are inspired by “Catholic imagination,” and how they contribute to the Catholic theological tradition.

Contents: This course investigates the intersection of theology, imagination, and the arts, to present a comprehensive picture of theological aesthetics and the manifold ways that art and culture can serve as a theological locus. It especially works to establish the theological and philosophical foundations for envisioning the impact of the incarnation on human thought and culture. It will include reflection on the essential theological themes of creation, incarnation, glory, beauty, and contemplation. Further, we will consider how theology can inspire culture and art, and how engagement with culture and art can enrich our theological understanding. This course also looks at the transformative power that the combination of art, culture, and theology can play in enacting justice.

Methodology : A mixture of lecture and discussion. Students will give presentations throughout the semester which will serve as the basis for class discussion.

Means of evaluation: These will include two short presentation papers (20%), weekly reading quizzes (25%), one final essay (30%), and class participation/attendance (25%).