Students at the University of Sheffield have allegedly been given a “trigger warning” about themes of violence and murder in the Bible, pertaining to Christ’s crucifixion.
English Literature students have been issued with a content notice, advising them that the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John contain “graphic bodily injury and sexual violence”.
Christians and theologians have responded with opprobrium – particularly given the notice of “sexual violence”.
Andrea Williams, chief executive of Christian Concern, told the Daily Mail that it was a “deeply ill-informed” decision.
“Applying trigger warnings to salvation narratives that have shaped our civilisation is not only misguided, but absurd,” she said. “To suggest that the crucifixion story involves ‘sexual violence’ is not just inaccurate, it’s a profound misreading of the text. The account of Jesus’s death is not a tale of trauma, it is the ultimate expression of love, sacrifice, and redemption, central to the Christian faith.”
The University of Sheffield said the content notes are an “academic tool” applied to a range of texts, “to signpost when sensitive or graphic content will be discussed”.
They insisted that students will still be encouraged to read the relevant texts: “It’s purpose is to ensure subjects can be highlighted and discussed openly and critically, while preparing students who might find such details difficult.”