Literary Islam: Poetry, Scripture, Philosophy

A broad overview of the most essential elements of the Islamic literary tradition. Begins with pre-Islamic poetry and how it framed the emergence of the Qur'an, hadith (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad), and the early Islamic community. Looks at the early Meccan verses of the Qur'an in comparison to with the later Madinan ones. Traces intertwined oral and scriptural traditions, hadith science and biographical literature, poetry and philosophy, mysticism and rationalism, belles lettres and adab, satire and vernacular literature. Ends with modern takes on classic genres and sources. Open only to students in the Focus Program. Department consent required.