TRS 759B John of the Cross
This course offers an overview of the life, teaching, and enduring influence of John of the Cross, "doctor of the church," through the study of his poetry and major prose works: The Ascent of Mount Carmel / Dark Night, The Spiritual Canticle, and The Living Flame of Love. Topics covered include his biography and historical context, as well as his contributions in the areas of mysticism and spiritual theology. Attention will be given to his theological anthropology and epistemology; his treatment of desire, the "dark night," and human transformation; and the creative application of his insights by contemporary authors dealing with such issues as ecumenism and interfaith dialogue, the contemporary decline in religious affiliation, and the struggle for social justice.