This course will investigate the historical development of Buddhism in India, and Tibet. The majority of the course will be devoted to the analysis of Buddhist scriptures and the thought of prominent thinkers such as Siddhartha Gautama, Nagarjuna, Padmasambhava and Tsongk'apa. Although the focus will be on the historical development of the Buddhist tradition in India and Tibet, the course will also explore Buddhism by placing it in dialogue with Christian thought.
REQUIRED READINGS
1. Chagdud Tulku, Gates to Buddhist Practice
2. The Dalai Lama, The Good Heart
3. assorted xeroxed materials.
COURSE FORMAT: Lectures and discussions
COURSE REQUIREMENTS:
1. attendance of all lectures and class participation.
2. completion of all assigned readings for each lecture.
3. two exams.
a. The exams will be given in class and take the whole period.b. There will be objective and essay questions.
c. The first exam will be in early October.
4. A five page essay on the text by the Dalai Lama
a. the essay will be due in November.b. The essays will be graded as follows
The essays will be graded as follows. Essays that do not sufficiently grasp the material or are poorly organized or are marred by problems with English mechanics will receive a grade of "D." Essays that demonstrate a good grasp of the material and are well organized will receive a grade of "C." Essays that show a good grasp of the material, are well organized and insightful will receive a grade of "B." The grade of "A" is reserved for truly outstanding work.