BSTD 205: Anthropological Study of Nepalese Religion

An investigation of the rich religious traditions of Nepal, with emphasis on the Kathmandu Valley. The course begins with an overview of Hinduism, with its diversity of symbols, beliefs and practices. The course identifies unifying elements, especially those relevant to Buddhism. The second part of the course focuses on Buddhism in Nepal, especially the unique form practiced by Newars, the indigenous people of the Kathmandu Valley, and the sole remnant of Sanskrit-based South Asian Mahāyāna Buddhism. Onsite lectures at places of particular historical and cultural significance offer an experiential dimension to this survey of Nepalese religion.

Prerequisites

None.