ARAB 035. Mapping Modern Arab Thought: From the Nahda to Contemporary Debates

This course offers a comprehensive exploration of the intellectual currents that have profoundly influenced the modern Arab world, spanning from the 19th-century Nahda (Arab Renaissance) to the present day. Through a dynamic combination of lectures, discussions, and readings, participants will immerse themselves in the diverse landscape of Arab thought, investigating key philosophical, political, social, and cultural movements that have shaped the modern Arab world. Topics of particular focus include the Nahda, reformism, revivalism, nationalism, Marxism, Islamism, Salafism, Arab critical theory, and feminism. Through critical analysis of primary texts and scholarly interpretations, students will cultivate a nuanced understanding of the intricate complexities inherent in Arab thought and its ongoing relevance within the contemporary global context.

The course is taught entirely in English.

No prior knowledge of the topic is assumed - students from all disciplines interested in history, politics, and religion are welcome to enroll.
Humanities.
1 credit.
Eligible for GLBL.
Fall 2024. Gasimov.
Catalog chapter: Modern Languages and Literatures: Arabic
Department website: https://www.swarthmore.edu/arabic

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