History and Culture of Afghanistan

3 credits · Undergraduate

This course will discuss Afghanistan from ancient times to the present, including the emergence of Afghanistan as a modern nation-state and its geo-strategic importance. The Soviet invasion and aftermath will be emphasized, along with issues of state and society, ethnic diversity and tribal structure, challenges of modernization, and nationalism and political identity. The role of religion and mystical orders and the role of art, music, and literature will also be discussed.