Scholars in the Western traditions study the phenomena of ‘Islam’ and ‘Muslim societies’ in very different ways, using many different kinds of sources. This seminar offers an introduction to the sources, tools, methods and concepts of the academic study of Islam. Following an overview of the apparatus, the auxiliary disciplines and the history of Islamic Studies, the following three themes are discussed:
Authority in Muslim societies;
Islamic normativity;
Research sources.
Within this framework, attention is paid to the changing position of mullahs, to some developments in Islamic Law, and to primary sources such as manuscripts, printed books, Internet, biographical reference works and life stories, audio-cassettes, films, pictures and clothing.
Timetable
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Method of Instruction
Lectures and tutorials
Course objectives
The main aim of this course is to get an understanding of the different methodological approaches available to do research in the field of Islamic Studies.
Required reading
R. Stephen Humphreys, Islamic History; a framework for inquiry (London/New York, Tauris, 1991, rev. ed., ISBN 1-85043-360-7).
a loose-leaf reader will be issued during the course of lectures.
Examination
Paper (6000 words).
Information
Blackboard/webpage
Not applicable.
Overview
A detailed overview will be handed out to the students at the beginning of the course.
Remarks
Registration via U-twist