JUDS 1846H: Advanced Talmud

Abstract

1. Objective In my teaching I have several objectives: The student should acquire proficiency in reading, translating, and analyzing precisely Talmud and many of the difficult and complex commentaries of the Rishonim. If the student can master these skills then: The student will be able, independently, to study any text of Talmud and Rishonim with accuracy, depth, and understanding.¶ In order to accomplish this I require the students to prepare, in advance of class, the material in small groups of two people. In these small study groups each student is expected to read, translate, and analyze the material to her study partner who would then offer her comments and opinions. During the formal class I repeat this process by calling on the students to read, translate, and explain. I constantly impress upon the students to be meticulous and precise in their reading and translations and that every word is important. I constantly ask probing questions to ascertain if they fully understand the conceptual ideas being expressed. I believe that this methodology of learning has been successful and the students have grown and are further developing their skills.