Notes, summaries, assignments, exams, and problems for Religion

Vatican City: Baroque Art and Architecture

Key Elements of the Baroque Period

Vatican 1:

• a) Vatican, Rome (IT)
• b) Lorenzo Bernini
• c) Baroque Style
• d) 1656-67
• e) Lintel

2: Historical Context: This period is notable for the interplay between crisis and progress. Many problems arose: social conflict, stagnation in agriculture and industry, pestilence, and war. However, it was also a time when colonial empires emerged, helping to alleviate these crises.

B) Cultural Context: The art center during the 17th century was in Rome. During this period, there was a scientific breakthrough in opera.

C) Religious Context: Religion saw a reaffirmation of the principles of the Catholic Church. The papacy was strengthened, and the Jesuits were created to curb the Counter-... Continue reading "Vatican City: Baroque Art, Architecture, and Religious Influence" »

Alfonso X

Issues

Alfonso X aimed to preserve and promote Castilian language and culture. He believed in the importance of recording all areas of knowledge, including legal, social, economic, and scientific topics. This is reflected in the variety of themes present in his work.

Right

The Book of Laws, or Seven Parts, aimed to provide clear and rational legal rules for the people. It drew inspiration from Roman law and existing legal traditions.

Sciences

Alfonso X commissioned treatises on astronomy and studies on the properties of gemstones, demonstrating his interest in scientific knowledge.

Games and Entertainment

His work on chess, dice, and tables, translated from Arabic, provides insight into various forms of entertainment popular at the time.

History

Alfonso... Continue reading "13th-Century Spanish Literature: Alfonso X, Juan Manuel, and the Auto de Los Reyes Magos" »

Spanish Family Members

Abortion: A Complex Ethical and Scientific Issue

One of the greatest controversies of recent years has been the subject of abortion. According to Wikipedia, abortion is the "premature interruption of pregnancy resulting in fetal death." It is widely agreed that abortion removes a potential new individual life. The Catholic Church, along with many other religions, is completely opposed to it, stating that abortion is only permissible when there is no life yet, meaning before the sperm has fertilized the egg. However, many scientists support abortion, particularly when the woman's life is not in danger.

The Dilemma of Fetal Malformations

A significant challenge arises with abortions performed due to fetal malformations. There's a distinction between... Continue reading "Abortion: Ethics, Science, and Legal Perspectives" »

Main Criticisms of the Christian Faith

The work of great authors such as Voltaire, Rousseau, and Diderot highlighted many contradictions within the Church. They presented it as an obstacle to societal progress. These thinkers argued that any intermediary between God and man was absurd and should be rejected.

The Enlightenment and Christianity

The Enlightenment brought a new understanding of religion, particularly Christianity. Some Enlightenment thinkers strongly criticized the Christian faith and the Church as an institution.

Elements Favoring the Development of Missions

Several factors contributed to the growth of missions: improved communication, colonization by European powers providing security, support from European Christianity, the rise... Continue reading "Christianity, Enlightenment, and Social Change: Key Aspects" »

The God Who Cares

1.1. God is found through Jesus: He is a transcendent being. Being the son of God is better known to man.

1.2. Jesus was a loving father: He takes care of his creatures through his deeds and words. God always forgives.

Near to God

The Jews found God unique and special, like a mother.

Jesus reveals a God who is close and friendly.

The God of Providence

God is immanent, reflected in his creation, yet transcends us, beyond our definitions.

• Some think that man has a capricious fate that depends on chance.
• Atheists: They deny God's existence, believing God is a human invention.
• Agnostics: Prefer not to ask questions about God.

Providence is the presence of God as Creator in all creation.

Reflections of God

• God is reflected in nature.
• God is