Author: Stephen O'Sullivan

HM49, WOMEN AND RELIGION, F’06, EXAM I, Emmachild

NAME______________________________________________

DIRECTIONS: Answer three of the following questions.  (NOTE: YOU MAY NOT ANSWER BOTH QUESTIONS #1 AND #5.)  Your answers must be clear, to the point, and must demonstrate working knowledge of technical, theoretical language.  When a question asks for a description, explanation or opinion, remember that a mere statement of the position is not sufficient.  You must clarify and defend your opinions.  Be sure to define all philosophical and theoretic terms.  Clearly label and number the questions you are answering.  

1.  a.. Carefully explain why Monism is more consistent with Goddess Worship and Dualism
           is more consistent with Patriarchy.
     b.  Give three examples, from your readings (i.e., from the nine goddesses discussed) to                       illustrate this point.  Describe and explain these examples carefully.

2.  Referring to the article, “What If It’s (Sort of) a Boy and (Sort of) a Girl?”, 
      Carefully explain why Chase’s position, particularly her thesis statement (the final                          paragraph) is a criticism of strict Dualism, Essentialism and Sexual Constructionism.  You            must refer to language throughout the article in supporting your answer.  
     
3.  Carefully explain the three types of evidence of ancient goddess cultures we have                          available, according to Ferguson, giving one example of each.  You must describe these
      examples specifically and in detail.

4.  a.  Carefully explain the Characteristics of Goddess Culture, according to Ferguson.  (Explain
          these–do not simply list them.)
     b.  Give one example of each characteristic from among the nine deities we have discussed.
          Carefully explain these examples, in detail, showing how they illustrate these                                  characteristics.

5.  a.  Carefully explain Reuther’s criticism of “Dualisms.”
     b.  Show how both Pythagoras’ and Taoism’s versions of Dualism illustrate Reuther’s point.

6.  a.  Compare the stories of Cybele and Isis, showing how these women can be viewed as 
          positive role models for women today.
     b.  Select the one image, from the other seven, (you must exclude Cybele and Isis) which is, 
          in your view, the most positive.  Describe her story and explain your reasons, in detail.