Denise A. Spellberg

This course surveys the history of the Middle East from the rise of Islam to the end of the fifteenth century. Students will be introduced to basic aspects of the political, social, and cultural dimensions of Islamic civilization from Spain to Iran as they changed over time.

In the midst of mapping this broad view, we will focus our attention on how specific historical figures and events contributed to definitions of Islamic identity, community, and authority. Central themes include the emergence of Sunni and Shi`i identities, the relationship of Muslims and non-Muslims, and the unique material and intellectual contributions of Islamic civilization to world history and other societies.

Required Books and Readings:

1. Jonathan A.C. Brown, Muhammad: A Very Short Introduction

2.  Ira Lapidus, A History of Islamic Societies (2002 edition only)

3.  D. A. Spellberg, Politics, Gender, and the Islamic Past: The Legacy of ‘A’isha bint Abi Bakr

4. John Alden Williams, ed. and trans., The Word of Islam

5. Xerox packet of primary documents and articles

Grading:

4 exams @ 25% each = 100%.

The course (reading seminar) provides an introduction to basic aspects of Islamic historiography before 1500 C.E., with an emphasis on intellectual, political, and religious history. We will study contemporary definitions of the field of medieval Islamic historiography as we look at original texts from the period. A range of genres will be studied in translation, including prophetic biography, biographical dictionaries, chronicle, court manuals, and the first medieval philosophy of history. Issues include: authenticity, narrative, authorial intent, available evidence, the invisibility of potential past subjects, silences and conflicts in historical production, as well as the importance of gender as a category of analysis. Historical biography will also be contrasted with contemporary Western fictional incarnations.

The course also considers new methodological approaches to critical historiographical issues of sectarian origins, death rituals, and the afterlife in material culture as well as the phenomenon of medieval Islamic precedents for religious authority and their contemporary impact. The last research section of the seminar allows students to use their familiarity with a range of basic sources to focus on their own scholarly interests by identifying a problem based in the medieval period, but not necessarily limited to it.

All assigned materials are in English, but students who wish to work in original languages are encouraged to do so, with the proviso that this is not a class in translation techniques. 

Course Requirements

Two analytical essays based on assigned course readings (6-8 pages): 25% each

One research paper (10-15 pages): 40%

Research proposal, 1-2 pages with preliminary bibliography, not graded but requisite.

One outline/review of a week's course reading (advance sign-up), weekly participation, and a final research presentation: 10%

Texts/Readings

Readings to be established-

This course surveys the history of the Middle East from the rise of Islam to the end of the fifteenth century. Students will be introduced to basic aspects of the political, social, and cultural dimensions of Islamic civilization from Spain to Iran as they changed over time.

In the midst of mapping this broad view, we will focus our attention on how specific historical figures and events contributed to definitions of Islamic identity, community, and authority. Central themes include the emergence of Sunni and Shi`i identities, the relationship of Muslims and non-Muslims, and the unique material and intellectual contributions of Islamic civilization to world history and other societies.

Grading:

4 exams @ 25% each = 100%.

Required Books and Readings:

1. Jonathan A.C. Brown, Muhammad: A Very Short Introduction

2.  Ira Lapidus, A History of Islamic Societies (2002 edition only)

3.  D. A. Spellberg, Politics, Gender, and the Islamic Past: The Legacy of ‘A’isha bint Abi Bakr

4. John Alden Williams, ed. and trans., The Word of Islam

5. Xerox packet of primary documents and articles

The course provides an introduction to basic aspects of Islamic historiography before 1500 C.E., with an emphasis on intellectual, political, and religious history. We will study contemporary definitions of the field of medieval Islamic historiography as we look at original texts from the period. A range of genres will be studied in translation, including prophetic biography, biographical dictionaries, chronicle, court manuals, and the first medieval philosophy of history. Issues include: authenticity, narrative, authorial intent, available evidence, the invisibility of potential past subjects, silences and conflicts in historical production, as well as the importance of gender as a category of analysis. Historical biography will also be contrasted with contemporary Western fictional incarnations.

The course also considers new methodological approaches to critical historiographical issues of sectarian origins, death rituals, and the afterlife in material culture as well as the phenomenon of medieval Islamic precedents for religious authority and their contemporary impact. The last research section of the seminar allows students to use their familiarity with a range of basic sources to focus on their own scholarly interests by identifying a problem based in the medieval period, but not necessarily limited to it.

All assigned materials are in English, but students who wish to work in original languages are encouraged to do so, with the proviso that this is not a class in translation techniques. 

Course Requirements

Two analytical essays based on assigned course readings (6-8 pages): 25% each

One research paper (10-15 pages): 40%

Research proposal, 1-2 pages with preliminary bibliography, not graded but requisite.

One outline/review of a week's course reading (advance sign-up), weekly participation, and a final research presentation: 10%

Texts/Readings

Readings to be established-

This course is intended to do three things: provide a brief introduction to Islam; define the role of Islam and the rights of Muslims in the history of this country; and introduce students to major issues confronting a diverse and dynamic population of Muslim Americans. The course introduces students to the presence of Islam in the United States from the colonial era to the twenty-first century through the use of documents and contemporary media. 

Texts

Jamal Elias, Islam.

John Esposito, What Everyone Needs to Know About Islam.

Yvonne Yazbeck Haddad, Jane I. Smith, and Kathleen M. Moore, Muslim Women in America: The Challenge of Islamic Identity Today

Jane Smith, Islam in America

Xerox documents

Grading

Journal Entries: 10%

Class participation 10%

Quiz 10%

Essay 30%

Biography and Final Essay 40%

To be provided by instructor. 

Course Description and Goals

This course surveys the history of the Middle East from the rise of Islam to the end of the fifteenth century. Students will be introduced to basic aspects of the political, social, and cultural dimensions of Islamic civilization from Spain to Iran as they changed over time. In the midst of mapping this broad view, we will focus our attention on how specific historical figures and events contributed to definitions of Islamic identity, community, and authority. Central themes include the emergence of Sunni and Shi`i identities, the relationship of Muslims and non-Muslims, and the unique material and intellectual contributions of Islamic civilization to world history and other societies. 

An overarching goal of this course is to focus attention on the history of the Middle East in this formative phase as a fascinating, complicated, and enriching study in its own right. In order to do this, students will be expected to master key terms and concepts of the period. The intent of all essay exams is to hone analytical skills and written expression. 

Course Rules

It will be my pleasure to meet with you throughout the semester, whether you have a question about the course or simply to make your acquaintance and facilitate your learning experience at this University. 

I am available during office hours and by appointment. Teaching assistants will also hold office hours. You may not reproduce verbatim notes or tapes of my lectures anywhere, in any form.

I will attempt to make this an informative and enjoyable class, but your participation is essential to complete your own intellectual development. I will not require your attendance in class (freewill in adults is a beautiful thing), but unexcused absences will not result in the recapitulation of a lecture by the instructor or teaching assistants. 

*Religious observances are always understood as excused absences. 

*Students with disabilities should consult me at the beginning of the semester.   

*Class handouts and assignment sheets due to any absence will always be supplied. Attendance will be taken at exams. 

*Do not breach the University’s Honor Code; re-read it. 

In order to succeed in this class, you will need to learn all the reading material assigned on the syllabus, delivered in lectures, and discussed in class. All exams and other written assignments are due on the dates stipulated on the syllabus. 

There will be no make-up exams without consent of the instructor. (Only medical emergencies or catastrophic events will warrant consideration.) Emails simply alerting me to your absence without discussion or documentation are not acceptable. 

Course Requirements: 

4 exams @ 25% each = 100%.

Required Books and Readings:

1. Hugh Kennedy, When Baghdad Ruled the Muslim World: The Rise and Fall of Islam’s Greatest Dynasty. 

2. John A. Williams, The Word of Islam.

2. Ira Lapidus, A History of Islamic Societies.

3. Xerox packet of documents             

Books available for purchase at the University Co-op, but cheaper online. Two course xerox packets available for purchase at Speedway (Dobie Mall). Everything is on reserve at the Perry Castaneda Library.

Part One:

Religion and Politics

I.  Course Objectives and the Middle East before Islam

Readings:  Lapidus, xviii-9.

II. The Advent of Islam

     Readings:  Lapidus, 10-30.

III. The Prophet

Readings: 

“The Covenant” 

IV. The Caliphs: Succession and Conquest

Readings:  Lapidus, 31-47. 

Course packet, “`A’isha bint Abi Bakr.” 

V. The First Islamic Empire: The Umayyad Dynasty at Damascus

Readings:  Lapidus, 47-51. Course packet, “The Pact of `Umar,” and “How the Jizya Is To Be Collected…” 

Part Two:

Social Change and the Rise of Islamic Culture

VI. Cosmopolitan Islam and Conversion: The Abbasid Empire at Baghdad     

Readings: Lapidus,  51-66.  

Kennedy, 1-159; Course packet, “Amin and Ma’mun as Children,” “The Succession,” “Zubaida’s Opinion,” “Rashid’s Pilgrimage,” and “Amin’s Head.”

VII. The Separation of Mosque and State 

Readings:  Lapidus, 67-111; 134-152.

Kennedy, 160-296; Course packet, “New Capital of Samarra.” 

VIII. Philosophy and Mysticism  

Readings: Lapidus, 156-193.

IX. Buyid Shi`I and Saljuk Sunni Dynasties at Baghdad 

Readings:   Lapidus, 112-132; 149-155.

     Course packet, Nizam al-Mulk, “On the Subject of Those Who Wear the Veil.”

X.  Shi`ism in Egypt and the Impact of the Crusades

     Readings:  Lapidus, 94-98; 133-152; 283-294. 

   Course Packet, Usamah ibn Munqidh, “An Appreciation of the Frankish Character,” Sicily,” and  Fareed Zakaria, “In Search of the Real New Iraq.” (2005)   

XI. The Mongol Invasion

Readings:   Lapidus, 226-234.

Course packet, “The Coming of the Mongols,” “The Last Caliph of Baghdad,” “The Fall of Baghdad (1258),” “The Battle of `Ayn Jalut,” “Timur and His Historian.”

Part Three:

New Empires and Contacts with the West

XII.  Islamic Spain [***Third Exam]

Readings: Lapidus, 299-336.

XIII. The Conversion of Iran to Shi`ism

Readings: Lapidus, 234-247.

XIV. The Sunni Ottoman Empire

Readings:  Lapidus, 197-225; 248-282; 294-298.

XV. Islam in 18th- Century Western Thought [Fourth Exam (in-class)]   Course packet, Kevin J. Hayes, “How Thomas Jefferson

Course Description: 

The course is an introduction to Islam as a fixture in both European and American history, with an emphasis on Western representations of the faith and its practitioners. The course explores European views of Islam in their medieval, pre-modern, and contemporary incarnations.  It focuses on how those precedents were adopted in colonial America and adapted in the United States. 

           The course also considers the challenges faced by contemporary Muslims in Europe and the United States with reference to race, gender, rights and pluralism.  Independent research on topics congruent with the aims of the course will be shared at the conclusion of the class.    

Schedule of Assignments

Book outline and class participation, 10%. 

Analytical essay, 40%. (6-8 pages) 

Preliminary research proposal/bibliography due (2 pages). 

Final Research Paper, 50% (15-20 pages)

Required Reading (not a complete list)

Robert J. Allison, The Crescent Obscured: The United States

and the Muslim World, 1776-1815

Kambiz GhaneaBassiri, A History of Islam in America 

Michael A. Gomez, Black Crescent 

Yvonne Haddad, Jane Smith, and Kathleen Moore, Muslim Women in America

Giles Kepel, Allah in the West.

Ziad Elmarsafy, The Enlightenment Qur’an

Tariq Ramadan, Western Muslims and the Future of Islam.

Jane Smith, Islam in America, 2nd edition. 

John Tolan, Saracens: Islam in the Medieval European Imagination.

Packet of documents

 All texts on reserve in PCL. 

I.   Introduction and Objectives 

II.  Medieval European Depictions of Islam  

III. Premodern European Depictions of Islam 

IV. Western Translations of the Qur’an 

Elmarsafy, Enlightenment Qu’ran

V.  Islam in Contemporary Europe: Race and Ethnicity  

Kepel. Allah in the West.

VI. America’s Earliest Encounters with the Middle East

Allison, The Crescent Obscured 

GhaneaBassiri, History of Islam in America, 1-164

VII. The Earliest American Muslims and Their Legacy 

Gomez, Black Crescent

(Analytical essay due)

VIII. Islam in Contemporary America 

Smith, Islam in America.  

(Research proposal and preliminary bibliography due)

IX. Gender Issues

Haddad, Smith, and Moore, Muslim Women

XI  Contemporary Challenges in Europe and the U.S.     

GhaneaBassiri, History of Islam in America, 165-end

Ramadan, Western Muslims and the Future of Islam

XII.  Research Period : Class does not meet; paper consultations  

XIII. Research Period 

XIV. Paper presentations

XV.  Paper presentations  (Final paper due)

350R

This course is intended to do three things: provide a brief introduction to Islam; define the role of Islam and the rights of Muslims in the history of this country; and introduce students to major issues confronting a diverse and dynamic population of Muslim Americans. The course introduces students to the presence of Islam in the United States from the colonial era to the twenty-first century through the use of documents and contemporary media. 

Texts

Jamal Elias, Islam.

John Esposito, What Everyone Needs to Know About Islam.

Yvonne Yazbeck Haddad, Jane I. Smith, and Kathleen M. Moore, Muslim Women in America: The Challenge of Islamic Identity Today

Jane Smith, Islam in America

Xerox documents

Grading

Journal Entries: 10%

Class participation 10%

Quiz 10%

Essay 30%

Biography and Final Essay 40%

The course provides an introduction to basic aspects of Islamic

historiography before 1500 C.E., with an emphasis on intellectual,

political, and religious history. We will study contemporary

definitions of the field of medieval Islamic historiography as we look

at original texts from the period.

A range of genres will be studied in translation, including prophetic

biography, biographical dictionaries, chronicle, court manuals, and the

first medieval philosophy of history by Ibn Khaldun. Issues such as

authenticity, narrative, authorial intent, available evidence, the

invisibility of potential past subjects, and silences in historical

production will be traced. In the first part of the course, analysis of

various forms of prophetic biography will also be considered in

contrasting Western incarnations.

  The second portion of the course considers new methodological

approaches to critical historiographical issues of sectarian origins,

political theory, material culture, ritual, and gender.

The object of the final, independent study section of the seminar is to

establish enough familiarity with the range of basic sources and

materials to focus individuals toward the investigation of their own

research interests.

   All assigned materials are in English, but students who wish to work

in original languages are encouraged to do so, with the proviso that

this is not a class in translation techniques.

Required Texts (SUBJECT TO CHANGE)

Fred Donner, Muhammad and the Believers (2010)

Anver Emon, Natural Right in Islamic Law (2010)

Nerina Rustomji, The Garden and the Fire (2009).

Leor Halevi, Muhammad’s Grave:  Death Rites and the Making of Islamic Society (Columbia University Press, 2007)

Stephen R. Humphreys, Islamic History: A Framework for Inquiry (Princeton University Press, 1991).

Wilferd Madelung, The Succession to Muhammad: A Study of the Early Caliphate (Cambridge University Press, 1997).

Tariq Ramadan, In the Footsteps of the Prophet: Lessons from the Life of the Prophet (Oxford, 2007).

Chase F. Robinson, Islamic Historiography, (Cambridge University Press, 2003).

Mary Thurlkill, Chosen Among Women: Mary and Fatima in Medieval Christianity and Islam (Notre Dame University Press, 2008)

 Course packet of  primary source readings.

*All books at Co-op for purchase and on reserve in PCL reserves desk

Grading

Two analytical essays of course readings (6-8 pages): 25% each

One research paper (10-15 pages): 40%

Research proposal, 1-2 pages with preliminary bibliography, not graded

One outline/review of a week’s course reading and a final research

presentation: 10%

Attendance and informed class participation are requisite.

Development of Middle Eastern history since the beginning of modern times.

Prerequisite: Graduate standing.