Professor Todd T. Lewis
425 SMITH HALL
Phone: 793-3436
E-mail: tlewis@holycross.edu
A seminar examining prominent movements within the "Northern School" of Buddhism, with particular attention to Indic, Tibetan, Nepalese, and east Asian developments. Topics include the Bodhisattva doctrine, Madhyamaka and Hua-yen philosophies, Pure Land lineages, and the esoteric schools. The seminar focuses upon influential texts (Lotus Sutra, Vimalakirtinirdesa Sutra, Bodhicaryavatara) and associated devotional practices. Attention will be devoted to meditation, ethics, and lay Buddhist practices.
This course is designed to be rigorous yet exploratory, conducted in a manner integrating lecture segments with regular discussions in seminar style. The course assignments are designed to provide maximum freedom for each individual to pursue topics of greatest interest.
All students are expected to participate actively in the coursework, ask questions, help develop the class' clarity, and make use of office hours.
Class topics will supplement the required readings, not replace them. Reading assignments should be completed beforethe designated class and analyzed carefully. Please consult with me if you are interested in exploring other pertinent subjects.
The Weekly discussion points, the Journal, and term paper must be handed in on time to receive full credit. The latter should be concise, clear, and carefully edited. Separate guidelines for these will be distributed.
Please bring the week's appropriate text(s) and cumulative class handouts to class.