Introduction to Islamic Studies

Catalog description

This interdisciplinary course will provide students with a broad overview of Islamic history and contemporary culture. It will explore the social and cultural conditions of pre-Islamic Arabia, the foundational teachings of Islam, the history and aesthetic form of the Quran, the biography and sayings of Muhammad and the relationship between Muhammad's biography and contemporary Islamic practices, including the daily rituals, modes of dress and gender norms variously observed in societies where Islam is predominant. The course will culminate with an exploration of specific cultural and social issues facing contemporary Muslims, including the role of women in public space, the separation between religion and politics, and religious violence. Skills emphasized will be: comprehensive comparative reading, analysis, and writing.