Reading Coptic Texts

This course will serve as a continuation of REL 555: Intro to Coptic Language and Literature. The focus of this term will be on building Coptic reading competency. The class will focus on reading Coptic Nag Hammadi literature and will serve as a basic introduction to the generic and literary forms of this corpus. We will read texts both in English translation and prepare shorter selections of the Coptic for each session. Students will walk away from the course with stronger reading comprehension as well as a knowledge about the theologies, philosophies, and historical contexts of the ancient codices.