CultHeritageArchivesArabWorld

3 Credits · Level: Graduate, Undergraduate

Heritage & Development in the Arab World explores architecture, art, manuscripts, libraries, monuments, poetry, dance and the natural environment, as well as the roles of non-governmental organizations, governments, the UN and diplomatic missions in developing and protecting heritage. Our focus will be on the Arab world, specifically Southwest Asia and North Africa (SWANA, often referred to as the Middle East and North Africa). As part of the Centennial Lab component of this class, you’ll have the opportunity to travel to Egypt, allowing you to delve into Egypt’s extensive history of cultural heritage, the role of institutions in developing it, alongside the role of tourism, funding organizations, and state projects. You will learn about the role development plays at the national and local level, as well as its role in defining and protecting cultural heritage. We will engage with issues around race, class, colorism, and other hierarchies, along settler colonialism, and delve into how they shape understandings of heritage. By the end of this course, you will have a comprehensive understanding of the challenges facing heritage and development in the Arab world. Readings and the assignments are designed to enhance both your theoretical and practical knowledge, preparing you for careers in tourism, cultural and economic development, community-based projects, foreign service, military, international organizations, museums, funding agencies and more. Learning outcomes Upon completing the course, you will have acquired the following skills and knowledge: - A solid understanding of heritage and development, and major themes and issues. - In-depth knowledge of cultural heritage specific to Egypt and the Arab world. - Enhanced skills in summarizing arguments, creating effective presentations, synthesizing material, and developing cohesive arguments. - Proficiency in working with various source materials (primary, secondary, written, visual, auditory, video) to build your knowledge and articulate your insights in ways that reflect analytical rigor. - Practical experience in project development, culminating in a four-part, semester-long project that includes creating a grant proposal and presenting a cultural heritage project seeking $250,000 in funding.