MELC 229 A: Introduction to Islamic Cultures and Thought

Winter 2026
View in MyPlan View in Time Schedule
Meeting:
MW 10:30am - 12:20pm
SLN:
17583
Section Type:
Lecture
Joint Sections:
JSIS A 210 A
Syllabus Description (from Canvas):

Introduction to Islamic Cultures and Thought

Office Hours: W 2-4 in Denny 344

This class is a survey of Islamic history. We will explore the history of Islamic thought, societies, empires, institutions, and cultures in a global context. The class will progress chronologically and cover topics such as the Quran and Prophet Muhammad, conquest and conversion, Islamic law and theology, Sunnism and Shiʿism, philosophy and cosmology, travel and trade, sainthood and mysticism (Sufism), pilgrimage, and Islam in America. Together we will engage with primary and secondary readings as well as videos, music, and art. This class assumes no prior knowledge of the subject.

Primary Source Reader (Required): Available at Professional Copy 'n Print on the Ave

Textbook (Recommended): Ira M. Lapidus, Islamic Societies to the Nineteenth Century (2012), available online

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Syllabus MELC 229 W26_Introduction to Islamic Cultures and Thought.pdf

Catalog Description:
Covers major developments in the formative, classical, and modern periods of Islamic cultures and thought from seventh century Arabia to the contemporary Muslim world. Looks at the development of Islamic religious thought and legal practice as well as the Muslim polities, cultures, and intellectual traditions of Asia, Africa, Europe, and America. Offered: jointly with JSIS A 210.
GE Requirements Met:
Social Sciences (SSc)
Arts and Humanities (A&H)
Credits:
5.0
Status:
Active
Last updated:
January 22, 2026 - 2:14 pm