Inspirations of India

Course Description, Outline and Objectives

Examine the lives of famous figures – in historical, mythological and divine aspects – who have shaped the Indian subcontinent and influenced the greater world.

Who am I?  Why am I here?  What is the nature and meaning of human life?  Explore how the answers to these and other questions have guided the lives of those born or grown in the backdrop of Hindu India, and what the impact may be for our own lives.   

Class 1	Introduction to the life and teachings of Mahatma Gandhi, the man who helped lead the fight for India’s modern independence.
	A look at the prose and poetry of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore and the philosophical vision behind his prolific works, with special focus on 1913’s Gitanjali.
Class 2	Who is Krishna?  From the birth of this enigmatic figure steeped in mythology to the great heroic tales of his youth.  An introduction from sacred legends in the Puranas to some of Krishna’s teachings in The Bhagavad Gita.
	Known to most of the world simply as The Buddha, the Indian prince Siddhartha Gutama taught a philosophy of liberation from the ordinary.  An introduction to his 4 Noble Truths and a cursory look at The Dhammapada.

 By the end of this course, students will:

• develop a general understanding of and appreciation for some of the ancient and universal philosophical principles of Hindu India; and have a knowledge of some of the major figures who have shaped our world and influenced its varied people

Administrative Notes

Duration: September 27 AND October 4, 3 hours each day from 1 - 4pm

Cost: $90, $75 students/seniors

Materials Needed: Each student will need a notebook and writing utensils.

Texts: A list of recommended books (editions and translations) will be provided; it is not necessary to purchase any book for this course.

Program, Location and Registration