HS 395 - Violence and Holiness in Twentieth-Century El Salvador

(3.00 cr.)

What does holiness look like in the midst of massive suffering and injustice? This course explores the life and ministry of Saint Oscar Romero within the historical context of El Salvador. From comprising part of the Maya Empire, to becoming a Spanish colony, to being a focal point of U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War (especially during the Reagan Administration [1980-1988]), El Salvador has had a rich and tumultuous past. During the country's civil war (1980-1992), Salvadoran government forces assassinated Bishop Romero for his outspoken criticism of unjust governmental policies and human rights abuses.

By exploring theological, political, economic, social, and cultural change over time in El Salvador, students consider events that shaped the context of Romero's life, his witness to the Christian gospel, and the significance of his legacy for both the Catholic church and the world. Fulfills the second history core requirement and the second theology core requirement. Same course as TH 215 .

Prerequisite: One HS 100-level course and TH 201 .
Sessions Typically Offered: Fall
Years Typically Offered: Odd Years

Interdisciplinary Studies: GT/IC/IL/IPJ