Syria: Politics Identity

3 Credits · Level: Graduate, Undergraduate

This seminar explores Syria's unique profile in the longue duree history of the Middle East. Students will learn how Syrian historical experiences have constituted an "archive" by which Arab and Muslim identities have been negotiated over time. Special attention will be given to Syria's special role in the codification of Islamic tradition and the construction of Arab nationalism, and how these themes come to bear for understanding the legacy of Syria today.