HISTORY OF ISLAM

  In this introductory course, we will seek to understand Islamic religious experiences and how they have shaped Islamic thought, culture, and history.  We will study the development of Islam from its origins in the Qur'ân and Muhammad's teachings, through codification of the classical Islamic tradition in its various forms and, finally, to the living Islams of the world today.

 C. Barks.  Open Secret.
 Frederick Denny.  An Introduction to Islam, 3rd ed.
 Camara Laye.  The Dark Child.
M. Ruthven.  Historical Atlas of Islam.
 John A. Williams.  The Word of Islam.

    1. To grasp the foundations of Islam.
    2. To be familiar with fundamental Islamic beliefs and practices.
    3. To examine key issues in Islamic scripture, ritual, law, theology and philosophy, mysticism, history, and politics.
    4. To appreciate Islam's roles in the contemporary world.

            1. Class attendance and participation (= 20 pts.)
              2.  Completion of assignments.
              3.  Three map quizzes (= 30 pts.)
              4.  Three essay examinations (= 300 pts.)

 Tuesdays, 1-2 and by appointment.  Rush Rhees Library  #424; 275-4760. 
 E-mail: THEH@mail.rochester.edu