The course offers a first introduction to the importance of texts in Islamic civilization. Subjects treated: The importance of the book in Islam; How to handle God’s word? Images in prayer books; Infallibility and inimitability of the Koran; Taking Greek science from Islamic sources; An excursion to the obscure side (blasphemy, murder); Islam and European enlightenment;
Genealogies of learning; The proliferation of Islamic texts, Ibn Khaldun and the Dutch; The illuminated title-page, etc.
Timetable
For the most recent update of the timetable click here
Method of Instruction
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Course objectives
At the end of the course students – understand the importance of the phenomenon book in Islam; – understand how Islamic booklore develops from the way God’s own word is handled in the material book; – have learnt how to use the internet for research on the islamic book; – understand the major historical developments of the islamic book by having become acquainted with a large number of specimens of Islamic books from the rich collections of Leiden University Library.
Required reading
The course is given with a textbook (under construction) by Prof. Witkam. During the course profuse use is made of the original manuscripts and printed books in the Leiden Islamic collections.
Examination
Requirements for the course: Attendance (eight Tuesday mornings), occasional homework, final essay on a self-chosen subject.
(MES607 requires an extra assignment)
Information
Prof.dr. J.J. Witkam and during the first lecture.
Blackboard/webpage
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Overview
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Remarks
Registration via U-Twist.