An overview of selected topics from the religious culture and thought of Byzantium and East Slavic lands, from Early Christianity to the so-called Russian religious renaissance of the twentieth century. The development of Eastern Christianity is discussed in a comparative perspective with an intent of providing greater insight into the shaping of Orthodox cultures and their distinctions from the cultures of Catholic and Protestant West. The course is taught in Russian, readings and discussion are in English and Russian.

Prerequisites:  Graduate standing or consent of instructor.