Honors/Islam, Art, and the Past

Catalog description

While the world is all too familiar with images of ISIS using explosives and frills to destroy ancient sites and artifacts in Iraq and Syria, there has been little attention given to the dynamic role of art within past and present Islamic societies. Yet, Islam has a rich and vibrant artistic tradition, one in which ancient civilizations played and continue to play a major role. This course introduces students to Islamic art and cultural heritage through a study of Islam’s engagement with past artistic traditions in the fields of architecture and the fine arts. It also addresses how the recent actions of ISIS have changed questions about cultural heritage and stewardship in the Middle East and the West. Finally, the course asks students what they can and should do to preserve cultural heritage.