Beginning with prehistoric India and the earliest recorded compositions, and concluding with a study of contemporary women gurus active in the United States, this course will introduce several major texts and traditions within the diverse religion called Hinduism. A combination of primary and secondary readings will allow us to think critically and historically about philosophy, epic literature and devotional poetry, and audio-visual materials will acquaint us with a variety of ritual practices. Our goal is not to define Hinduism in a straightforward manner, but rather to glimpse how varying interpretations of central concepts construct a complex tradition that changes over time, while nevertheless remaining recognizably Hindu.