Introduction to the intellectual history of Germany from the age of the Reformation to the period of Idealism. We will focus on three major thinkers--Martin Luther, Immanuel Kant, and G.W.F. Hegel--on key issues in their thought, and on the reception and discussion of some of these issues in 20th century theory. Lectures and readings in English.

This course offers an introduction to several central concepts in the thought of Luther, Kant and Hegel by way of close readings of short texts by each author. We will focus on the relationship between religion and history in each thinker, paying special attention to how religion fits into their very different concepts of human freedom and morality. Within these parameters, the course will follow points of theoretical continuity and discontinuity between these authors–e.g. how does Kant’s theorization of obligation relate to Luther and the ‘inner man’? How does Hegel conceive of morality in contrast to Kant? We will pay special attention to how Luther, Kant and Hegel frame their thought in explicit contrast to Judaism. We will also look at the significance of these authors in the work of other major authors, including Karl Marx and Friedrich Nietzsche. All readings and discussions are in English, no German is required.  All readings and discussions are in English, no German is required.

Repeat Rules

Course is not repeatable for credit.

Requirements class fulfills