Fall 2003

MES 381 • Shi'ite Islam: Historical Development, Beliefs and Practices

Course Description

This course will provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the historical development of the Shi‘i branch of Islam. The course will explore historiographical debates surrounding the emergence and early development of Shi‘ism, as well as Sunni-Shi‘i polemics. This will be followed by an analysis of the historical evolution of popular Shi‘i beliefs and ritual practices. Students will learn about the different Shi‘i sectarian divisions, along with schools of law and theology. Finally, students will learn about the important changes Shi‘ism has undergone during the modern period. The course will be organized partly in accordance with historical chronology and partly along thematic lines. In addition to being exposed to the secondary literature, students will be required to read original texts or primary documents, either in the original language or in translation (depending on the student’s language skills).

Grading Policy

Class participation 30% Short paper (due week ten) 20% Research paper (due at end of semester) 50%

Texts

To be announced.

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