Sami and Old Norse Religion/Nordic religions, 7.5 Credits

Contents

This course provides a comparative perspective on Nordic religions, from the Viking Age to the present. Focus is on Old Norse religion around year 1000 and Sami religion in the 17th and 18th centuries. The introduction and history of Christianity in Sweden is outlined as well. Topics that are given attention are: sources and source criticism; myth and rite; the cultural and societal context for the different religious traditions; and the indigenous Nordic religions' encounters with Christianity. Further, the different views, interpretations and uses of these religious traditions in the history of research and in popular culture are problematized.

Expected learning outcomes

Expected learning outcomes:

Knowledge and understanding

• account for the most central source material regarding Old Norse and Sami religion
• account for the most characteristic traits of Old Norse and Sami mythology and ritual
• account for the complicated processes of religious change in Scandinavia from the Iron age and onwards

Competence and skills

• apply source critical methods and perspectives in comparative religion in the study of the indigenous religions of Scandinavia
• be able to identify the importance of gender and age, as well as social and ethnic belonging in religious practices and in religious change in Scandinavia

Judgement and approach

• reflect on the relevance of knowledge about Old Norse and Sami religion today

Required Knowledge

Form of instruction

The course is held in English. Teaching consists of lectures, seminars, group exercises, and individual work. When attendance at lectures or exercises is compulsory, that is, of the examining nature, it is specifically stated in the schedule. In case of absence on a compulsory occasion, supplementary information is provided by the teacher.

Examination modes

The course is examined continuously through assignments, participation in mandatory seminars, and an individual exam. Group assignments and seminars are graded with graded with Pass (Godkänd) or Fail (Underkänd). The individual exam is graded with Pass with distinction (Väl godkänd), Pass (Godkänd) and Fail (Underkänd). To pass the course all mandatory parts are required, and the individual essay must have received the grade G. To receive Pass with distinction (VG) all mandatory parts are required (grade G), and the individual essay must have received the grade VG. Grades are set by the Faculty of Humanities' appointed examiner.

Students who fail the examination have a right to retake the examination within two months after the first examination, but not earlier than 10 working days after the results from the original examination has been given to the students and a copy of the exam has been made available. A re-exam must be offered once again within a year. A student who has passed an examination may not be re-examined.  

If examinations or compulsory learning sessions cannot be repeated in accordance with current rules for re-examination, they may be replaced by other forms of assignments. The extent and content of such an assignment shall be in proportion to the missing compulsory sessions.  

The examiner can decide to adapt the form of examination, specified in the syllabus, to accommodate a student's needs. Individual adaptation of the form of examination should be considered according to a student's needs. Any change to the form of examination must be made within the framework of the curriculum's expected study results. Students who need an adapted examination must request it from the institution responsible for the course no later than 10 working days before the examination. It is the examiner who decides on the adapted examination and then notifies the student. 

Other regulations

In the event that the syllabus expires or undergoes major changes, students are guaranteed at least three examination sessions (including the regular examination) according to the regulations of the syllabus on which the student was originally registered for a maximum period of two years from the end of the previous syllabus or the course has ceased to be offered. 

In a degree, this course may not be included together with another course with similar content. In case of uncertainty, the student should consult Director of Studies at the Department of The Department of Historical, Philosophical and Religious Studies.