Survey of the history of Arabic poetry and prose from the Pre-Islamic era to the 20th century with emphasis on the development of specific genres and styles and changing historical perspectives on enduring themes in Arabic literature. Critical readings from a selection of medieval poetical and prose works in Arabic including love manuals, spiritual allegories, encyclopedias, collections of comic erotica, autobiographies, travel accounts, and others. Lectures in English. Readings will focus on issues central to modern Arab society. Lectures in English.
Seminar focuses on an intensive study of a major text or figure within a religious tradition.
Critical examination of selected texts in the Hebrew Bible, as well as interpretive and historical problems pertaining thereto. Seminar in special areas of interest in religious studies. Specific course titles to be announced by the department each quarter offered. Course content will vary. Using religion as its primary site, exploration of interpretations and explanations of the structure and practice of sacred phenomena, including embodiment, symbol, narrative, myth and ritual, architecture and technology, and power and institution.