Same as Religious Studies 353E. Study of early Christian writings that were not included in the Christian Bible. Examines issues such as the effect of narrative, religion and violence, gendered expectations for women and men, the uses of fantasy literature, and religious authority. Emphasis on systematic methods for disciplined interpretation. Three lecture hours a week for one semester. Only one of the following may be counted: Classical Civilization 348 (Topic: Beyond the New Testament), 348F, Religious Studies 353E. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing.