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. But comparisons are made with ancient religions on the British Isles, continental Germanic and Finnish religions, and 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.
 
Each module with a final examination has five examination opportunities. Students who have not received a passing grade after the first examination have the right to a second examination opportunity within two months. The third and fourth opportunities will be when the course is held again, and the fifth opportunity will be the next time the course is offered. Registered students have the right to be examined up to two years after their first registration date.

Other regulations

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.