24-08 Under Caesar's Sword

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Christians around the world suffer persecution at the hands of both state and non-state actors. Some analysts have documented the global persecution of Christians, but few have asked what Christians actually do in response. Under Caesar’s Sword researchers have studied the character of these responses in twenty-five countries around the world in addition to “The West.” The project seeks to achieve a better understanding of these responses in order to assist persecuted Christians and those who wish to act in solidarity with them. This course was created by the Under Caesar's Sword project, which is co-sponsored by the de Nicola Center for Ethics and Culture at Notre Dame and the Religious Freedom Institute.

Course Content

Unit 1: Introduction and Overview

Unit 2: A Theological Exploration of Persecution and Martyrdom

Unit 3: Religious Freedom and Strategies for Resisting Persecution

Unit 4: Responses to Persecution

Unit 5: Solidarity, Theirs and Ours

Course Format

• Six weeks in duration; first week for orientation.
• Up to 20 students in each course.
• Weekly assigned readings and audio lecture.
• Supplemental readings are provided to encourage further exploration.
• Written assignments (200-250) required.
• Facilitator-moderated weekly Zoom sessions with participants.

Participation Requirements

• Listen to weekly lecture.
• Read assigned texts; keep notes, questions, and comments for class discussions.
• Answer weekly discussion question. 
• Respond to each unit assignment.
• Attend weekly Zoom for each unit. If you cannot attend, you can still meet the participation requirements.
• Complete the course evaluation.

Time Expectations

3 to 5 hours per week, depending on your learning style and schedule.

Course Certificate

An electronic certificate of completion awarding 30 contact hours will be available in course when completing all course requirements.