RST129 - From Cloister to CrossFit: Religion in the Medieval and Modern World

Students interested in applying should speak with their school counselor regarding the preregistration process or any other questions related to the program.

Register Online by June 15

Course Details

  • January 18 to May 9, 2024
  • Online: Thursdays, 4 – 5:45 p.m. 
  • In-person: Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. (Dates TBD)
  • 3 credits | $300
  • Last day to register: June 15, 2023

Course Overview

What makes a medieval monastery different from a modern-day brewery or gym? What is religion? What is secularism? This course covers medieval and modern religions through critical reading of texts, films, and artwork drawn primarily from Christianity, but also neighboring traditions (Judaism, indigenous religions) and modern movements (science, nation-building). 

Course Advantages

This course immerses you in religious writing and art from the last two millennia, studying multiple expressions of Christianity (Orthodox, Catholic, Protestant), as well as Judaism, Islam, and Native American traditions, with a focus on how these religions have impacted one another and adapted to the modern world. A special concern will be in thinking about how religion has responded to modern movements of science, nation building and secularism (the possibility of not being religious at all). You will learn to think, write and speak well about religion using the methods of history, theology and literature. Whether in a medieval monastery or a modern gym, religion is everywhere! 

About the Instructor

Craig Tichelkamp

adjunct professor of religious studies & theology
Professor Tichelkamp (pronounced TISH-uhl-camp) has taught at Stonehill in the Religious Studies & Theology Department for five years, helping students to think critically about religion and its role in the world and in their own lives. His research is in Christian mystical theology in medieval Latin cultures, but he loves to teach broadly in the theological and ethical traditions of Catholicism and its neighbors. In his courses, students use theological, historical and literary methods to reflect critically on God, themselves and the world. Outside of class at Stonehill, Professor Tichelkamp has helped with programming and educational initiatives through the Office of Intercultural Affairs for First-Generation and LGBTQ+ students.

For You