World Religions John Bellaimey The Breck School Overview: In this required freshman course, given during May Program for the first 120 minutes of the day, students learn the basic worldviews of the major wisdom traditions, become familiar with the core vocabulary and meaning of each, and develop their own answers to the main religious questions. This course is taught in the theatre by the Chaplain and Drama teacher jointly. Course Content 3 days, Hinduism, special focus on reincarnation, polytheism versus monotheism, and the law of karma 3 days, Buddhism, special focus on compassion, meditation, the four nopble truths, and nirvana 2 days, Islam, special focus on the oneness of God, and the five pillars of faith. 1 day: choice of Judaism/ Jainism/ Rastafarianism 2 days, 1 day: choice of Christianity/Bahai faith/Shinto 2 days review, synthesis, and Baraka. Materials and Activities Films: Baraka (Fricke), The Chosen (Potok), Kundun, Gandhi, X, and others. In 99-00, we found themes in The Godfather, Dead Poets' Society, and Contact which revealed some of the wisdom of these religions. Special guests include an Indian artist/dancer, a Hindu playwright/director, zen priest, Bahai presentation by a Breck parent, and others. We use drama activities extensively. Assessment Nightly readings, frequent quizzes, participation in small group exercises, yoga, t'ai chi, theatre improvisations, zazen, short nightly paragraphs on topics relating religions to everyday life, and a final exam (multiple choice and essay). email: <john.bellaimey@breckschool.org> Return to RSiSS Syllabi