Overview

This module offers an in-depth exploration of Hinduism’s enduring influence in the 21st century, tracing the development of its core philosophies, practices, and myths. You will examine how the major traditions—Vaishnavism, Shaivism, and Shaktism—continue to shape modern Hindu practices, ethical beliefs, and community identities.

Through the lens of mythology, you’ll explore how the depictions of gods and goddesses inform contemporary issues such as gender, social justice, and environmental sustainability. The course also focuses on the experience of Hinduism in the diaspora, investigating how Hindu communities adapt and reinterpret traditions in diverse cultural contexts.

In addressing key social challenges, you’ll consider how Hindu perspectives contribute to debates on caste, inequality, and activism, offering insights into the intersection of tradition and modernity. This module allows you to critically engage with how Hinduism navigates the complexities of today’s globalized world.

Theme 1: Theological and Philosophical Foundations of Hinduism •Introduction to the history and development of Hinduism over the last four millennia. •Key philosophical schools (Advaita Vedanta, Samkhya, etc.) and theological concepts (Brahman, Atman, Karma, Moksha). •The role of the Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and other texts in shaping modern Hindu thought. •Exploration of how early philosophical ideas inform contemporary Hindu practices and ethical systems.

Theme 2: Vaishnavism in the Modern World •Exploration of Vaishnavism, one of the largest and most influential traditions within Hinduism, focusing on the worship of Vishnu and his avatars (Krishna, Rama). •Examination of contemporary Vaishnava practices, rituals, and festivals, and their philosophical underpinnings. •Analysis of how depictions of Vishnu and his avatars in mythology shape ethical beliefs and modern practices, including devotion (bhakti), community identity, and moral teachings. •Discussion on Vaishnavism's engagement with modern social issues.

Theme 3: Shaivism in the Modern World •Study of Shaivism, centered around the worship of Shiva, and its importance in the theological and philosophical landscape of Hinduism. •How modern Shaiva communities interpret ancient teachings, rituals, and festivals. •Analysis of mythological depictions of Shiva and their influence on contemporary practices, ethics, and personal identity. •Exploration of how Shaivism engages with modern challenges, including questions of gender, asceticism, and societal integration.

Theme 4: Shaktism in the Modern World •An introduction to Shaktism, the worship of the Divine Feminine and the Goddess (Devi), and its significance in Hindu theology. •Examination of modern Shakta practices and their connection to ancient teachings. •How representations of the Goddess in myth and ritual shape contemporary ethical beliefs, social values, and gender roles. •Analysis of the role of the Divine Feminine in contemporary Hindu identity and its influence on modern feminist movements.

Theme 5: Hindu Mythology and Contemporary Practices •In-depth exploration of key Hindu myths and stories, focusing on the gods and goddesses central to each tradition (Vishnu, Shiva, the Goddess). •How these mythological narratives continue to influence modern Hindu ethical frameworks, rituals, and societal norms. •Exploration of how mythology helps establish identity, community values, and personal ethics in the modern world. •Discussion on the adaptation and re-interpretation of ancient myths in contemporary Hinduism.

Theme 6: Hinduism in the Diaspora •Examination of how Hinduism has adapted and evolved in the global diaspora, particularly in the Western world. •The role of migration, globalization, and interfaith interactions in shaping Hindu identity and practices outside of India. •Case studies of Hindu communities in different cultural contexts, focusing on their efforts to maintain traditional practices while adapting to new social environments. •Exploration of the challenges faced by Hindus in the diaspora, including questions of integration, identity, and the preservation of tradition.

Theme 7: Hindu Responses to Social Issues •Investigation of Hindu perspectives on key contemporary social issues. •How Hindu philosophies and practices engage with modern ethical dilemmas, such as social justice, and activism. •Analysis of the role of Hindu leaders and movements in addressing global and local social issues, and their impact on modern Hindu communities. •Case studies of Hindu responses to issues like religious intolerance, economic inequality, and human rights.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -Generally accurate but with omissions and errors.Assertions are made without clear supporting evidence or reasoning.Has structure but is lacking in clarity and therefore relies on the reader to make links and assumptions.Draws on a relatively narrow range of material.

-good -Good C- - C +. Submitted work is competent throughout and occasionally distinguished by superior style, approach and choice of supporting materials. It demonstrates:Good structure and logically developed arguments.At least in parts draws on material that has been sourced and assessed as a result of independent study, or in a way unique to the student.Assertions are, in the main, backed by evidence and sound reasoning.Accuracy and presentation in an appropriate academic style.Very Good B- - B+. Submitted work is competent throughout and distinguished by superior style, approach and choice of supporting materials. It demonstrates:Very good structure and logically developed arguments.Draws on material that has been sourced and assessed as a result of independent study, or in a way unique to the student.Assertions are backed by evidence and sound reasoning.Accuracy and presentation in an appropriate academic style.

-excellent -Excellent A - - A*. Submitted work is of an outstanding quality and excellent in one or more of the following ways:Has originality of exposition with the student’s own thinking being readily apparent.Provides clear evidence of extensive and relevant independent study.Arguments are laid down with clarity and provide the reader with successive stages of consideration to reach conclusions.

Learning Outcomes

• Develop a critical awareness of the historical foundations of Hinduism and their impact on the practice of the religion today.

• Have a clear understanding of the central doctrines of Hinduism and how they are interpreted by distinct denominations that exist within the religion.

• To assess the contribution of Hindu mythology in establishing a Hindu response to contemporary world issues.

• To examine common themes found within Hindu mythology.

• To examine how the three largest theological denominations express devotion to their chosen deity, both in India and as part of the Hindu diaspora.

• To recognise the historical and philosophical factors that led to the development of the three largest denominations within Hinduism.