Courses

This course explores the intellectual, cultural, and literary development of the “pre-modern” period through canonical literature, philosophy, drama, and theology from the beginnings of the Common Era to roughly the seventeenth century CE. It provides, in English translation, a variety of texts by religious thinkers, poets, artists, and politicians who formulated many ideas and values that still captivate people's imagination even today. Through the readings we will encounter different modes of thinking from across the world, with a focus on such themes as free will and divine justice, power, religion, and more. Students will access a diverse range of resources to develop an understanding of the texts and their contexts. They will learn why these works are still relevant today, by exploring adaptations and references to them in movies, art, comic books, and television series from the modern countries and peoples to whom these classics are most relevant. The course stresses careful reading, critical thinking, good writing and communication, and analytical skills.

This course is eligible for Honors Credit through the Hutton Honors College.

Catalog Information: COLLS-103  FRESHMAN SEMINAR IN A&H

Instructor:

Asaad Alsaleh

Email:

alsaleha@indiana.edu

Department:

Middle Eastern Languages and Cultures

Alsaleh researches modern Arabic literature and culture, with his most recent book examining the Arab Spring. “Voices of the Arab Spring: Personal Stories of the Arab Revolutions” was published in 2015. Alsaleh also researches comparative literature and literary theory as well as cultural studies.

GenEd Information: Approved for the Arts & Humanities requirement of the IU Bloomington General Education program.