The course Eschatology: Crossroads of 20th Century Theology explores the eschatological dimension as a fundamental key to understanding the theology of the last century. Through the study of prominent theologians and theological movements of the 20th century, this course highlights the importance of eschatology in Christian life and theological thought, both on a personal and ecclesial level. The structure of the course is divided into several parts: an introduction presenting the essential features of the course and the cross-cutting themes; a first part offering a synthesis of the history of theology with special reference to the way in which the eschatological theme is treated by the most prominent authors and theological movements over the centuries; a second part providing general outlines of 20th century theology, highlighting the renewal and the eschatological turn as the core of the course; a third part that looks at the themes of 20th century theology as they relate to eschatology, including the theology of history, the theology of hope, political theology and liberation theology; and a fourth part that presents the systematic claim to show how eschatology is indeed a meeting point that allows for a systematic view of theology.
This second-cycle course is designed to encourage broad student participation, engaging students in theological dialogues based on selected texts, which promotes a deep and thoughtful exchange on the topics covered.