The First Thousand Years of Catholic Church History

This course offers an opportunity to explore the history of the Christian Church from its origins in Judaism, its social and sacramental development, including the work of Christian apologists, the convening of councils, confronting heresies, the rise of monasticism and the growth of Christianity beyond the confines of the empire through to the East-West Schism of 1054. It will examine the conflicts, individuals, social movements, and theologies that shaped Christianity during this formative period. A special emphasis is placed on the use of primary sources, which will aid students to better understand the historical realities of the period being studied and learn how primary sources may be used in historical research.