AFRS 109 - Beyond the Veil and Islamic Terrorism: Modern Arabic Literature

Semester Offered: Fall
1 unit(s)

This course introduces students to major themes, authors, and genres in modern Arabic literature from the late nineteenth century to the present. Readings include autobiography, fiction, drama, and poetry representing the rich Arabic literary heritage of the Middle East and North Africa. We also read various secondary materials and watch several documentary and feature films that will anchor our discussion of the literary texts in their socio-historical and cultural context(s). Some of the major themes (foci) of the course include (1) tradition and change; (2) the colonial and postcolonial encounters with the other; (3) changing gender roles and the politics of (Islamic) Feminism; (4) religion and politics, among others. Mootacem Mhiri.

Open only to freshmen; satisfies college requirement for a Freshman Writing Seminar.

Two 75-minute periods.