This general undergraduate EMI course leverages the captivating power of cinema to explore world religious civilizations, life philosophies, and a spectrum of ethical and moral issues. "Film, Faith, and Moral" is designed to enhance students' understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures, offering insights into the similarities and differences among various world religions and fostering a deep respect for religious cultures. The course delves into major world religions and addresses cross-religious moral and ethical themes, such as the rewards and punishments in the afterlife, the Golden Rule, concepts of rebirth, worldviews, the interplay between digital technology and religion, and the nature of temptation and sin. It also covers repentance, loyalty, forgiveness, altruism, self-salvation, and transcendence. Utilizing a rich array of films, including documentaries, animations, and feature films, the course broadens students' perspectives on religious and philosophical thinking and their understanding of the interconnections between cinema, literature, and art. An introduction to semiotic theory is also included to enhance students' media literacy and critical thinking skills. The course structure includes three-hour weekly sessions, with the first two hours dedicated to the instructor's lectures and the final hour for discussion led by a TA. Active participation in pre-class preparations, including reading and writing, as well as engagement during class discussions, is expected. "Film, Faith, and Moral" provides a comprehensive and engaging approach to understanding the complex relationship between film, faith, and morality.

By the end of this course, students are expected: 1. To know some of the important moral themes and religious teachings in the world religions; 2. to be able to think critically about the film from a variety of theoretical perspectives; and 3. to be able to engage in religious dialogue.

1. Students are required to complete the assigned pre-class readings (including text-book chapters and film) each week and submit a 300-word essay to the TA. 2. Being punctual is essential; students should enter the classroom on time and sub-mit all assignments before the specified deadlines. 3. Active participation in the class, especially during the weekly discussion section, is strongly encouraged. 4. If a student is unable to attend the class, they must inform the TA and follow NTU regulations to request leave. 5. Eating or using mobile phones for conversation is strictly prohibited in the class-room, particularly during class sessions. 6. All assignments and papers must adhere to the principles of academic ethics, with zero tolerance for plagiarism. Honesty is of utmost importance.

4 hours

(Textbook) Richard Holloway. A Little History of Religion. New Haven, Connecticut: Yale University Press, Reprint edition, 2017.

（Extended Readings） Bryan P. Stone. Faith and Film: Theological Themes at the Cinema (Nashville, TN: Chalice Press, 2000). Robert K. Johnston. Reel Spirituality: Theology and Film in Dialogue. (Michigan: Baker Academic, 2000) Margaret R. Miles. Seeing and Believing: Religion and Values in the Movies. (Boston: Beacon Press, 1996) William F. Fore. Mythmakers: Gospel, Culture and the Media. (NY: Friendship Press. 1997) Stewart M. Hoover and Knut Lundby. Rethinking Media, Religion and Culture. (Lon-don: SAGE Publications, 1997) Arthur A. Berger. Media analysis techniques (Beverly Hills: Sage Publications, 1982) John C. Lyden. Film as Religion: Myths, Morals, and Rituals (New York: New York University Press, 2003)