Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/calvin
Coursera’s “Calvin – Histoire et réception d’une Réforme” offers a comprehensive and nuanced exploration of John Calvin, the influential figure of the Protestant Reformation. Presented in French with English subtitles, this course is a valuable resource for anyone interested in religious history, theology, or the societal impact of reform movements.
The course is structured into five modules, providing a thorough examination of Calvin’s life, thought, and legacy. The first module, “La vie de Calvin – Calvin’s life,” meticulously details Calvin’s biography, from his education and early reform efforts to his significant periods in Geneva and Strasbourg. It contextualizes his work within the broader European Reformation landscape, highlighting key events like the Servetus affair and the development of Geneva into “Calvin’s Geneva.”
Module two, “La pensée théologique de Calvin – Calvin’s theology,” delves into the core of Calvin’s theological contributions. It explores his views on Scripture, humanity, the nature of God, Christ’s redemptive work, the Holy Spirit, election, the Church, sacraments, and spirituality. The module emphasizes recent scholarship, encouraging a critical engagement with Calvin’s ideas.
“L’éthique de Calvin – Calvin’s ethics” (Module 3) investigates the theological underpinnings of Calvin’s ethical framework, focusing on God’s command, the uses of the Law, and the distinction between the spiritual and temporal kingdoms. It also examines the political, economic, and social implications of his ethical teachings.
Module four, “La diffusion du calvinisme – The spread of calvinism,” traces the international dissemination of Calvinism, examining its impact on churches and its broader influence on various aspects of human culture, including arts and philosophy. It offers a wide perspective on the Calvinist legacy beyond its European origins.
Finally, “Lire Calvin aujourd’hui – Reading Calvin today” (Module 5) brings together diverse perspectives from various personalities on Calvin’s contemporary relevance. This module addresses common perceptions of Calvin, the legacy of the Reformation in Geneva, and the multifaceted nature of Calvinism across different cultural spheres.
Overall, “Calvin – Histoire et réception d’une Réforme” is an academically rigorous yet accessible course. The instructors present Calvin’s complex ideas with clarity and a balanced, critical approach, avoiding both hagiography and condemnation. The availability of English subtitles makes it accessible to a global audience. This course is highly recommended for students of history, theology, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of one of the most significant figures in Western religious and intellectual history.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/calvin