Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/calvin
If you’re interested in the historical and theological influences of John Calvin, a pivotal figure in the Protestant Reformation, then the Coursera course ‘Calvin – Histoire et réception d’une Réforme’ is an excellent fit. Offered in French with English subtitles, this course provides a well-structured exploration of Calvin’s life, theology, ethical framework, and his lasting impact on the modern world.
### Course Overview
The course is divided into five modules, each aimed at delving deeper into different aspects of Calvin’s ideology and influence.
1. **Calvin’s Life** – You will start by examining the major milestones of Calvin’s life, including his experiences in Geneva and Strasbourg, and his establishment of reformation in Geneva, highlighted by events like the Servetus case.
2. **Calvin’s Theology** – This module introduces Calvin’s thoughts on critical theological themes, including the nature of God, the role of the Church, and the significance of the Bible, positioning his perspectives within recent scholarship.
3. **Calvin’s Ethics** – Here, you will discover the theological foundations of Calvin’s ethical approach, covering topics such as God’s commandments and their social, economic, and political implications.
4. **The Spread of Calvinism** – This module examines the rapid international spread of Calvin’s ideas across Europe and beyond, providing insights on how these ideas influenced various societal aspects, from churches to the arts.
5. **Reading Calvin Today** – The final module invites various experts to reflect on the relevance and variations of Calvin’s legacy in contemporary times, addressing popular perceptions and cultural impacts.
### My Experience
I found the course to be intellectually stimulating. Each module is crafted to deepen your understanding of Calvin without necessarily idolizing or vilifying him, instead fostering a critical engagement with his life and ideas.
The use of both French and English makes it accessible to a broader audience, which enhances the learning experience. The subtitles are clear, allowing non-French speakers to grasp the nuances of discussions effectively.
### Recommendation
I highly recommend this course for students, theologians, and history enthusiasts alike. The structured approach allows you to engage with Calvin’s work comprehensively, while the discussions with contemporary scholars offer new perspectives on the implications of his reformative efforts today. Whether you are familiar with Calvinist teachings or a newcomer to this area of study, you will find insights that provoke thought and encourage further exploration.
### Conclusion
Overall, ‘Calvin – Histoire et réception d’une Réforme’ is more than just a course; it is a dive into the depths of Calvin’s enduring influence across centuries. For anyone looking to broaden their understanding of Protestant thought and its origins, this course is a must-take.
Happy learning!
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/calvin