M8: Dogmatics & History of Theology
Dogmatics is the academic discipline that systematically presents, critically reflects upon, and unfolds the binding faith statements of Christianity in their internal coherence. It interprets ecclesiastical doctrinal decisions within the horizon of scripture and tradition, inquiring into their truth, consistency, and significance for faith and the present day.
History of Theology is the academic discipline that examines the historical development of theological modes of thought, doctrinal formations, and methods from the Early Church to the present. It analyzes how theological concepts emerge, are received, and are transformed within specific historical, cultural, and ecclesiastical contexts, thereby making the historicity of theological statements visible.
Dogmatics & History of Theology in the Master’s Program MA Eastern Christian Studies
The module M8: Dogmatics & History of Theology consists of two learning units:
- M8.1: History of Councils and Theology of the Christian East (2 ECTS)
- M8.2a: History of Syriac Theology and Literature (2 ECTS)
or
- M8.2b: Modern Orthodox Theology reflected in selected protagonists (2 ECTS)
The required assessment is a portfolio (1 ECTS).
The module comprises a total of 5 ECTS.
Course Content
- Fundamental questions and core themes of dogmatic theology in Eastern Christianity
- Development of central doctrinal contents: Trinitarian theology, Christology, Pneumatology, Anthropology, Eschatology, Ecclesiology, and Sacramental theology
- Emergence and reception of dogmatic formulas in the ecumenical councils
- History of theology from Late Antiquity through Byzantium to modern Orthodox and Oriental traditions
- Relationship between theology, liturgy, and spirituality in the development of doctrine
- Theological schools and authorities (Cappadocians, Maximus the Confessor, John of Damascus, Palamas, etc.)
- Philosophical, cultural, and political conditions of theological developments
- Comparative perspectives: Commonalities and differences between Eastern and Western dogmatics
- Relevance of Eastern history of theology for current systematic-theological and ecumenical issues
Learning Objectives and Competences
- Students possess in-depth knowledge of the central themes, terminology, and systematic structures of dogmatic theology within the field of Eastern Christianity.
- They understand the historical development of Eastern theology from Patristics through Byzantine and medieval traditions to the modern era.
- They are able to analyze essential theological concepts—such as Trinitarian theology, Christology, Pneumatology, Anthropology, Eschatology, Ecclesiology, and Sacramental theology—within their historical and denominational contexts.
- They recognize the interactions between the formation of dogma, liturgy, spirituality, and ecclesiastical practice in the various traditions of the East.
- They are capable of critically reflecting on historical-theological developments in comparison between East and West, identifying both continuities and divergences.
- They apply systematic-theological and historical methods to texts, sources, and doctrinal decisions of the Eastern Churches.
- They can reconstruct and analyze theological positions from original texts or translations and present them argumentatively within the framework of academic discussions.
- They recognize the connection between theology, culture, philosophy, and politics in the emergence and reception of theological doctrines.
- They develop a reflective understanding of the unique characteristics of Eastern Christian modes of thought and their significance for contemporary ecumenical and systematic-theological questions.
- They are able to independently develop historical-theological insights, evaluate them critically, and contribute them to current academic or ecclesiastical discourses.
M8.1: History of Councils and Theology of the Christian East
Course Instructor
Prof. Dr. Thomas Kremer
Chair of Theology of the Christian East – Catholic University of Eichstätt-Ingolstadt
![[Translate to English:] Thomas](/fileadmin/_processed_/7/1/csm_Thomas_Kremer_752d5faec2.webp "Thomas Kremer")
I am looking forward to this course because the history of councils and theology in the Christian East impressively demonstrates the intensity with which faith, language, and ecclesiastical identity were contested. It is precisely these historical debates that open up a deeper understanding of the theological diversity…
I am looking forward to this course because the history of councils and theology in the Christian East impressively demonstrates the intensity with which faith, language, and ecclesiastical identity were contested. It is precisely these historical debates that open up a deeper understanding of the theological diversity of the East and its significance for the present.
Academic Cycle and Workload
The learning unit is offered every summer semester. It comprises 2 SWS (= 1 ECTS) of digital self-guided learning (including synchronous meetings) and approximately the same amount of independent preparation and follow-up time (= 1 ECTS).
M8.2a: History of Syriac Theology and Literature
Course Instructor
N. N.
Academic Cycle and Workload
The learning unit is offered every summer semester. It comprises 2 SWS (= 1 ECTS) of digital self-guided learning (including synchronous meetings) and approximately the same amount of independent preparation and follow-up time (= 1 ECTS).
M8.2b: Modern Orthodox Theology reflected in selected protagonists
Course Instructor
N. N.
Academic Cycle and Workload
The learning unit is offered every summer semester. It comprises 2 SWS (= 1 ECTS) of digital self-guided learning (including synchronous meetings) and approximately the same amount of independent preparation and follow-up time (= 1 ECTS).
