UC Irvine Extension Offers New Course on the History of the Dalai Lamas

Despite Popularity of Dalai Lamas, Few People Aware of How the Well-Known Figures Have Shaped Cultural and Religious Aspects of Tibet

IRVINE, Calif. – July 18, 2006 – UC Irvine Extension has announced the launch of a unique new course entitled, “A History of the Dalai Lamas.” The 10-week course, which will take place 6:30-9:30 p.m. Thursday evenings from September 28 through December 7, is designed to provide overall insight into Tibetan culture, history and religion, with an emphasis on obtaining a deeper understanding of the Dalai Lama—one of the most visible and well-known symbols of Tibetan culture. 

“Since many people recognize an image of the Dalai Lama when they see it, they feel that they know him,” said Federica Venturi, the instructor of the course who is a doctoral candidate in Tibetan Studies at Indiana University and has developed the course exclusively for UC Irvine Extension. “But in reality for most of us this knowledge does not go much beyond his name and the most recent events of his life, such as the Nobel Peace Prize. This course will give a unique perspective, helping to understand who the Dalai Lamas are and how each of them has played a significant role in influencing Tibetan culture and history.”

The Dalai Lama has long been a familiar figure head of Tibetan culture, both on account of his 1989 Nobel Peace Prize, and because of his constant efforts to promote world peace and further the knowledge of Tibetan and Buddhist culture around the world. Despite the popularity of the current Dalai Lama, however, few people are aware that other Dalai Lamas of preeminent historical importance have shaped the cultural and religious aspect of Tibet in the past. The course tracks the history of the Dalai Lamas, from their origins to the 20th century when the current 14th Dalai Lama found it necessary to flee from Tibet and establish a Tibetan government in exile in India. “A History of the Dalai Lamas” will also explore less-known aspects of a Dalai Lama’s life, including their Buddhist writing, artworks and literary writings.

“This course is ideal for anyone interested in Buddhism or who has a general interest in history and politics, as well as contemporary issues,” said Venturi. “Students will learn how the Dalai Lama came to power, how they are selected and how they have reigned. In addition, the course will lay out the importance of the Dalai Lama figure in today’s world and his current stature as it relates to the roots of Tibetan history.” 

The Dalai Lama will be teaching in Southern California just prior to the UC Irvine Extension course, allowing people who attend those teachings to be able to follow-up and learn more about him.
“We continuously develop new courses in yoga and Buddhism to satisfy the intellectual curiosity and personal development needs of the community,” said Molly Schneider, director of Yoga and Buddhism Studies Programs at UC Irvine Extension. “These innovative courses allow attendees to find a community of people exploring similar ideas and experiences in addition to content and exposure to great instructors.”

The 10-week UC Irvine Extension course is open to the public and begins September 28 on the UC Irvine campus. The cost for the program is $315. To register for the course or for more information, visit www.extension.uci.edu or call (949) 824-5414.

About UC Irvine Extension

As the continuing education arm of UCI, UC Irvine Extension is dedicated to providing a university-level learning experience for students, offering thousands of exciting courses and programs to local, regional, and global constituencies. UC Irvine Extension offers a rich array of academic and community programs to support a diverse audience, from a wide selection of academic programs to numerous campus activities. For more information, please visit www.extension.uci.edu.

About the University of California, Irvine

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