Unit Guide

General Information

Unit convenor and teaching staff	Unit convenor and teaching staff Unit Convenor Kyle Keimer kyle.keimer@mq.edu.au Contact via kyle.keimer@mq.edu.au W6A 538 By appointment
Credit points	Credit points 4
Prerequisites	Prerequisites Admission to MAncHist or GradCertAncHist or MA in (Ancient History or Coptic Studies or ECJS or Egyptology or History or Late Antiquity or Ancient Art and Architecture) or PGDipArts in (Ancient History or ECJS) or PGCertArts in (Ancient History or Coptic Studies)
Corequisites	Corequisites
Co-badged status	Co-badged status
Unit description	Unit description This unit offers advanced study of a special topic in History. Topics will be chosen from issues identified in current scholarship, particularly those relevant to methodology in Ancient History, historiography and the study of material evidence. Where available, visiting scholars will participate in this unit. Students will be expected to master relevant scholarship and seek to go beyond it in their research paper. The topic for Session 1 History Studies is: Prophets and Prophecy in the Hebrew Bible and the Ancient Near East. Few characters from the biblical texts are more loved, reviled, and debated than the prophets whose messages ranged from judgment and condemnation to restoration and salvation. But who were the prophets and what was the function of prophecy in the ancient Near East? These two questions underlie an in-depth look at the lives, culture, and messages of the biblical prophets and provide a path for contextualizing these men/women of God within their broader ancient Near Eastern context. The evolution of the role of prophet and the various types of prophecy are investigated from the earliest evidence (2nd millennium B.C.) to the 4th century B.C. with a brief look to later prophetic work into the Roman period, including prophetic traditions up to the present.

Important Academic Dates

Information about important academic dates including deadlines for withdrawing from units are available at https://www.mq.edu.au/study/calendar-of-dates

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

Know the development of prophecy and prophetic duties over the course of the Bronze and Iron Ages and be able to relate specific developments to key socio-cultural and geo-political developments.
Identify methodological developments in the study of prophets and prophecy in both the Hebrew Bible and ancient Near Eastern documents.
Analyze source material, including the archaeological record, ancient sources, and modern scholarship, the critiquing of texts and application of knowledge at an advanced level
Synthesize acquired knowledge and understanding to produce critical analytical essays.

General Assessment Information

Submission of Assignments: All assignments are to be submitted both digitally via the iLearn site by their respective due dates and times (which are all listed according to local Sydney time) and in hard copy in class. Access to the internet and the ability to download and/or view unit materials are essential. Any technical issue encountered with accessing unit materials and/or with submitting assignments should be directed to the IT department via ask.mq.edu.au. After lodging a complaint/request with them you must also notify me via email concerning the issue as soon as possible after it is discovered. Contacting me after an assessment's due date to say that you could not submit it on time will not result in an extension for that assessment unless IT provides me with a time-stamped notice.

Assignments will be assessed on their level of completion, coherence, grammar, and comprehension.

Assessment tasks / assignments are compulsory and must be submitted on time. Extensions for assignments can only be granted for medical reasons or on compassionate grounds. Without documentation (medical or counselling certificates) or prior staff approval, a penalty of 5% a day, including weekends, will be applied. If required, applications for extensions should be made to me before the assignment's due date. No assignments will be accepted after assignments have been corrected and feedback has been provided.

Assignment tasks handed in early will not be marked and returned before the due date.

For Special Consideration Policy see under Policies and Procedures.

Note on Assessment - To complete the unit satisfactorily you will need to undertake all assessment tasks and achieve an overall mark worth 50% or above.

Assessment Tasks

Name	Weighting	Due
Book Review	30%	End of Week 6
Participation and Reading	10%	Every Week
Bibliography	10%	Variable
Research Paper	50%	End of Week 13

Book Review

Due: End of Week 6
Weighting: 30%

Write a 1500-word critical book review (+ notes and bibliography as necessary) on one of the approved titles (to be provided in class).

*”End of Week X” means by 9pm (local Sydney time) on the Sunday of that week. Assessments submitted late will be penalized at 5% per day late for four days. If the essay is five or more days late, it will receive a zero grade.

On successful completion you will be able to:

Know the development of prophecy and prophetic duties over the course of the Bronze and Iron Ages and be able to relate specific developments to key socio-cultural and geo-political developments.
Analyze source material, including the archaeological record, ancient sources, and modern scholarship, the critiquing of texts and application of knowledge at an advanced level
Synthesize acquired knowledge and understanding to produce critical analytical essays.

Participation and Reading

Due: Every Week
Weighting: 10%

Students are expected to interact in class, thereby demonstrating familiarity with assigned readings. Students should read all readings for a given week BEFORE the class meeting of that week. They should also be able to offer a short synopsis of each reading--it is suggested that students not only be able to summarize each reading, but also that they assess how each reading relates to the discussion questions for a given week.

On successful completion you will be able to:

Know the development of prophecy and prophetic duties over the course of the Bronze and Iron Ages and be able to relate specific developments to key socio-cultural and geo-political developments.
Identify methodological developments in the study of prophets and prophecy in both the Hebrew Bible and ancient Near Eastern documents.
Analyze source material, including the archaeological record, ancient sources, and modern scholarship, the critiquing of texts and application of knowledge at an advanced level
Synthesize acquired knowledge and understanding to produce critical analytical essays.

Bibliography

Due: Variable
Weighting: 10%

Students will choose one of the weekly topics and compile a comprehensive bibliography for the topic. Assessment will be based on the types of resources compiled (i.e., academic vs. popular; relevant vs. irrelevant; international in scope (i.e., does the bibliography include resources in foreign languages) vs. English-only). The purpose of the assignment is to familiarize the student with the body of secondary literature concerning a specific topic and to hone their search skills for advanced research. Each student will provide a brief (less than 5 minutes) presentation on their bibliography and summarize the state of research on their given topic. Students do NOT have to read all of the resources listed in the bibliography, but they should peruse each well enough that they can rationalize a given source’s inclusion in the bibliography.

On successful completion you will be able to:

Identify methodological developments in the study of prophets and prophecy in both the Hebrew Bible and ancient Near Eastern documents.
Synthesize acquired knowledge and understanding to produce critical analytical essays.

Research Paper

Due: End of Week 13
Weighting: 50%

Students will write on a topic related to the course description. It is advisable to discuss your area of interest with the instructor early in the term. Length: 2000-2500 words.

On successful completion you will be able to:

Know the development of prophecy and prophetic duties over the course of the Bronze and Iron Ages and be able to relate specific developments to key socio-cultural and geo-political developments.
Identify methodological developments in the study of prophets and prophecy in both the Hebrew Bible and ancient Near Eastern documents.
Analyze source material, including the archaeological record, ancient sources, and modern scholarship, the critiquing of texts and application of knowledge at an advanced level
Synthesize acquired knowledge and understanding to produce critical analytical essays.

Delivery and Resources

This class is offered internally.

REQUIRED READING

Readings will be listed on iLearn and can be accessed there (via the Macquarie Library). There is no textbook.

Online units can be accessed at: http://ilearn.mq.edu.au/.

PC and Internet access are required. Basic computer skills (e.g., internet browsing) and skills in word processing are also a requirement.

Please consult teaching staff for any further, more specific requirements.

Unit Schedule

Topics:

1. Prophets: What is a prophet?

Prophets in Historiography; Who is a Prophet?: Males and Females

2. Prophecy: What is the purpose of prophecy? How does one prophesy?

Prophecy vs. Divination

3. Prophets and Politics

Prophets and Kings

Prophets as Leaders

4. Prophets and Social Justice

5. Prophets and the Economy

6. Prophets and Warfare

7. Prophets and Religions

Prophets and the Covenant

8. Prophets and Poetry

Writing, writing prophets, and poetic skill

9. Prophets and Geography

10. Prophets and Prophecy Through Time: from antiquity to today

Policies and Procedures

Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central. Students should be aware of the following policies in particular with regard to Learning and Teaching:

Academic Honesty Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/academic_honesty/policy.html

New Assessment Policy in effect from Session 2 2016 http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/assessment/policy_2016.html. For more information visit http://students.mq.edu.au/events/2016/07/19/new_assessment_policy_in_place_from_session_2/

Assessment Policy prior to Session 2 2016 http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/assessment/policy.html

Grading Policy prior to Session 2 2016 http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/grading/policy.html

Grade Appeal Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/gradeappeal/policy.html

Complaint Management Procedure for Students and Members of the Public http://www.mq.edu.au/policy/docs/complaint_management/procedure.html

Disruption to Studies Policy http://www.mq.edu.au/policy/docs/disruption_studies/policy.html The Disruption to Studies Policy is effective from March 3 2014 and replaces the Special Consideration Policy.

In addition, a number of other policies can be found in the Learning and Teaching Category of Policy Central.

Student Code of Conduct

Macquarie University students have a responsibility to be familiar with the Student Code of Conduct: https://students.mq.edu.au/support/student_conduct/

Results

Results shown in iLearn, or released directly by your Unit Convenor, are not confirmed as they are subject to final approval by the University. Once approved, final results will be sent to your student email address and will be made available in eStudent. For more information visit ask.mq.edu.au.

Extensions

Extensions for assignments can only be granted for medical reasons or on compassionate grounds. Without documentation (medical or counselling certificates) or prior staff approval, a penalty of 2% a day, including weekends, will be applied. If required, applications for extensions should be made to me before the assignment's due date.

Note on Assessment To complete the unit satisfactorily you will need to undertake all assessment tasks and achieve an overall mark worth 50% or above.

Student Support

Macquarie University provides a range of support services for students. For details, visit http://students.mq.edu.au/support/

Learning Skills

Learning Skills (mq.edu.au/learningskills) provides academic writing resources and study strategies to improve your marks and take control of your study.

Student Services and Support

Students with a disability are encouraged to contact the Disability Service who can provide appropriate help with any issues that arise during their studies.

Student Enquiries

For all student enquiries, visit Student Connect at ask.mq.edu.au

IT Help

For help with University computer systems and technology, visit http://www.mq.edu.au/about_us/offices_and_units/information_technology/help/.

When using the University's IT, you must adhere to the Acceptable Use of IT Resources Policy. The policy applies to all who connect to the MQ network including students.

Graduate Capabilities

PG - Capable of Professional and Personal Judgment and Initiative

Our postgraduates will demonstrate a high standard of discernment and common sense in their professional and personal judgment. They will have the ability to make informed choices and decisions that reflect both the nature of their professional work and their personal perspectives.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

Identify methodological developments in the study of prophets and prophecy in both the Hebrew Bible and ancient Near Eastern documents.
Analyze source material, including the archaeological record, ancient sources, and modern scholarship, the critiquing of texts and application of knowledge at an advanced level
Synthesize acquired knowledge and understanding to produce critical analytical essays.

Assessment tasks

Book Review
Participation and Reading
Bibliography
Research Paper

PG - Discipline Knowledge and Skills

Our postgraduates will be able to demonstrate a significantly enhanced depth and breadth of knowledge, scholarly understanding, and specific subject content knowledge in their chosen fields.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

Know the development of prophecy and prophetic duties over the course of the Bronze and Iron Ages and be able to relate specific developments to key socio-cultural and geo-political developments.
Identify methodological developments in the study of prophets and prophecy in both the Hebrew Bible and ancient Near Eastern documents.
Analyze source material, including the archaeological record, ancient sources, and modern scholarship, the critiquing of texts and application of knowledge at an advanced level
Synthesize acquired knowledge and understanding to produce critical analytical essays.

Assessment tasks

Book Review
Participation and Reading
Bibliography
Research Paper

PG - Critical, Analytical and Integrative Thinking

Our postgraduates will be capable of utilising and reflecting on prior knowledge and experience, of applying higher level critical thinking skills, and of integrating and synthesising learning and knowledge from a range of sources and environments. A characteristic of this form of thinking is the generation of new, professionally oriented knowledge through personal or group-based critique of practice and theory.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

Know the development of prophecy and prophetic duties over the course of the Bronze and Iron Ages and be able to relate specific developments to key socio-cultural and geo-political developments.
Identify methodological developments in the study of prophets and prophecy in both the Hebrew Bible and ancient Near Eastern documents.
Analyze source material, including the archaeological record, ancient sources, and modern scholarship, the critiquing of texts and application of knowledge at an advanced level
Synthesize acquired knowledge and understanding to produce critical analytical essays.

Assessment tasks

Book Review
Participation and Reading
Bibliography
Research Paper

PG - Research and Problem Solving Capability

Our postgraduates will be capable of systematic enquiry; able to use research skills to create new knowledge that can be applied to real world issues, or contribute to a field of study or practice to enhance society. They will be capable of creative questioning, problem finding and problem solving.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

Know the development of prophecy and prophetic duties over the course of the Bronze and Iron Ages and be able to relate specific developments to key socio-cultural and geo-political developments.
Identify methodological developments in the study of prophets and prophecy in both the Hebrew Bible and ancient Near Eastern documents.
Analyze source material, including the archaeological record, ancient sources, and modern scholarship, the critiquing of texts and application of knowledge at an advanced level
Synthesize acquired knowledge and understanding to produce critical analytical essays.

Assessment tasks

Book Review
Participation and Reading
Bibliography
Research Paper

PG - Effective Communication

Our postgraduates will be able to communicate effectively and convey their views to different social, cultural, and professional audiences. They will be able to use a variety of technologically supported media to communicate with empathy using a range of written, spoken or visual formats.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

Identify methodological developments in the study of prophets and prophecy in both the Hebrew Bible and ancient Near Eastern documents.
Analyze source material, including the archaeological record, ancient sources, and modern scholarship, the critiquing of texts and application of knowledge at an advanced level
Synthesize acquired knowledge and understanding to produce critical analytical essays.

Assessment tasks

Book Review
Participation and Reading
Bibliography
Research Paper

PG - Engaged and Responsible, Active and Ethical Citizens

Our postgraduates will be ethically aware and capable of confident transformative action in relation to their professional responsibilities and the wider community. They will have a sense of connectedness with others and country and have a sense of mutual obligation. They will be able to appreciate the impact of their professional roles for social justice and inclusion related to national and global issues

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

Analyze source material, including the archaeological record, ancient sources, and modern scholarship, the critiquing of texts and application of knowledge at an advanced level
Synthesize acquired knowledge and understanding to produce critical analytical essays.

Assessment tasks

Book Review
Participation and Reading
Bibliography
Research Paper