Instructor: Diana Eck

An exploration of the classical texts, spiritual teachings, epic narratives, and religious movements that have shaped a complex civilization for some three thousand years, from the Indus Valley to today. Readings in primary sources – Vedas and Upanishads, Buddhist and Jain teachings, the Mahabharata and the Bhagavad Gita, Bhakti and Sufi poets, Sikh gurus and Muslim kings. Attention to the creation of a rich and composite civilization and the ways in which these sources continue to be of significance to the understanding of modern India.... Read more about CULTBLF 60/HDS 3429: Religion in India: Texts and Traditions in a Complex Society

Instructor: Ali Asani

The course is an introduction to the fundamental concepts of Islam and the role that religious ideas and institutions play in Muslim communities around the world. Its main concern is to develop an understanding of the manner in which diverse notions of religious and political authority have influenced Muslim societies politically, socially and culturally.... Read more about HDS 3628/CULTBLF 19 : Understanding Islam and Contemporary Muslim Societies

An introduction to ten iconic monuments of the Islamic world from the beginning of Islam to the early modern period.... Read more about Monuments of Islamic Architecture

The course critically examines the ideologies and political strategies of twentieth century Islamist movements, as well as their origins and evolution. ... Read more about Islam and Politics in the Modern Middle East