Professor:  Judd H. Burton, MA

New Alexandria Academy

professorburton@yahoo.com

COURSE DESCRIPTION

This course is a brief survey of the elements of traditional Roman religion.  It is designed to introduce the student to the tenets, beliefs, and certain spiritual practices of the ancient Romans.  Upon completion of the course students will better understand the uniqueness of Roman religion and gain perspective and direction for more advanced study of Roman mythology and religion.

TEXT

Jesse Benedict Carter.  “The Religion of Numa.”  in The Religion of Numa (ed. Judd H. . 

            Burton).  Dumas, Texas:  Burton Beyond, 2007.

REQUIREMENTS

All students are required to read the text.  It is a requirement, but it is also a gracious invitation.  Students must also complete the assignment.

ASSIGNMENT

Upon completion of text, chose one of the following questions and write a one page, double spaced essay answering it:

1] What features of Roman religion make it distinctive (especially from that of

Greeks)?

2] Is traditional Roman religion concerned more with mythology or ritual? 

Explain your answer.

3] Often in grade school, we are taught that the Roman and Greek deities, and

therefore their religions, are analogous and interchangeable.  In light of Carter’s essay, does this notion hold true?

When you complete your essay, email it to me in an attachment or in the text of the message at professorburton@yahoo.com.  I will then grade it and return it to you with some comments.

DISCUSSION

Part of the mentoring process involves interaction between instructor and student.  Please email any questions you may have concerning the course subject material and I will answer as promptly as possible.

*Godspeed in your pursuit of the truth.  Thank you for choosing to sample the course material of the New Alexandria Academy.  I look forward to our interaction.