This course aims to contextualize and historicize Islamic art and architecture and offer an alternative to Eurocentric narratives of art and history; highlight intersections and nuances within Islamic art and architecture in the early modern period; and introduce concepts about things and sites that will more generally inform the students’ thinking about culture, historical geography, and environment.

The lessons will be lectures presented with the aid of electronic visual material. Required readings for each week will be specified at the beginning of the semester. Students are encouraged to participate, read the weekly assignments, and prepare questions and discussion points prior to each class. Each student is required to deliver one presentation (5-10 minutes) of their reflections an additional reading of their choosing.

The final grade is based on attendance and class participation (15%), short presentations (15%), midterm examination (30%) and final examination (40%).