RELG323

This course will examine contemporary Islamic cultures, beliefs, practices, and traditions by way of classic and contemporary works of philosophy, theology, fiction, poetry, and film. The course will progress thematically, pairing each theme with relevant primary source readings and films (as well as other media, such as music). By the end of the course, the student will be familiar with the diversity in Islamic cultures and traditions from Southeast Asia, South Asia, the Middle East, North Africa, Europe, and North America. The course will examine the many challenges, paradoxes, and adaptations contemporary Islamic society has experienced through the 20th and into the 21st centuries. Students will have the opportunity to experience the diversity of Islam first-hand in Chicago. Prerequisites: one course in ISLM or a 200-level course in RELG or with the consent of the instructor.