This was an extremely enjoyable class. It is not too hard and Halverson-Taylor is incredible.
Grade Distribution
34 Reviews
This class was well taught and engaging. The discussion section was actually very helpful in reinforcing/diving deeper into the material. The midterm and final were not very difficult if you keep up with the reading. Overall a worthwhile class!
Best class I have taken so far here at UVA. She is by far my favorite teacher as well. I only missed one lecture and that was because I was sick. I always looked forward to this class and I am sad it is coming to an end. Highly recommend. I'm not very religious and yet I found this course very interesting. A must take class with her.
this is a great class... for first years
If you take this class make sure you get Andrew. He is awesome in section and really helps you to enjoy the class and engage in the material. He is also known as a fair grader while some of the others are considered a little more difficult graders.
The topics covered in the class are really interesting- you definitely have to do the Bible reading, but the Coogan textbook is generally helpful just for filling in the gaps in class. A decent amount of writing involved, but the TAs are great about helping you develop a good argument writing style. Overall an awesome class!
This class is definitely enjoyable. Professor H-T is very passionate about the subject material and she is very knowledgeable. Doesn't put very much material on the slides, so you pretty much have to write down everything she says in lecture. Sections are enjoyable too, and the midterm is not too difficult.
This is a great class. I'd recommend it to anyone who's always wanted to read the Bible but hasn't gotten around to doing it. Even if you don't want to become a Religious Studies major, it's a fairly easy way of getting the History and Non-Western Perspective requirements out of the way at one time. I learned so much more than I ever thought I would, even in the first few classes. Most of the material is interesting, although a few of the books are boring reads, Prof. H-T still manages to give great lectures. I haven't heard anything bad about the TAs, so I don't think you can go wrong. Everyone's required to do four short papers, but they aren't that difficult and can easily be completed the day before they're due. The midterm seemed very rushed, but if you study a lot you should get a good grade.
The earlier part of the semester is easier and more interesting. Be sure to pay MORE attention during the second half. Also, don't be afraid to ask for help on your essays. The course requires discussion postings and 4 short essays on the check scale, but you have multiple chances for check-pluses.
This was my favorite class of the semester! Professor Halvorson-Taylor is a very engaging lecture and never put me to sleep. She is also incredibly easy to take notes to. The material was interesting and encouraged critical thinking. My section was always fun and thought provoking with Andrew Guffey. I definitely recommend this class!