Politics and Society in the Middle East

Catalog description

This class introduces students to core topics in the study of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA): (post-) colonialism, modernity, nationalism, state formation, economic development, democratization, gender, religion, and the politics of daily life. Students will also examine the ways the region has been shaped by many waves of social movements, including nationalism, Marxism, feminism, and Islamism. The class introduces students to theoretical concepts and historical contexts for approaching the region in an informed manner and for reflecting on preconceived notions about the region.