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VDS Lifelong Learning Course

The Faith of Frederick Douglass

Instructor: James P. Byrd, Chancellor’s Chair of Wesleyan Studies, Professor of American Religious History, Associate Dean for Graduate Education and Research in the Grad Dept. of Religion

The Faith of Frederick Douglass

$55.00

Online (asynchronous)

This 6-week course explores the life and writings of Frederick Douglass, focusing on his deepest-held convictions. This course offers a multifaceted assessment of Douglass’ engagements with religious groups, Biblical and theological views, and how religion informed his views of politics and society.  Throughout his life, Douglass had a contentious relationship with organized religion, but his nuanced and prophetic vision of Christianity profoundly influenced his life and thought. Ultimately, this course takes a chronological approach through Douglass’ primary sources – including his writings, famous speeches, and lesser-known works – to understand his significance in his own context and continuing relevance to some of today’s most challenging questions.