Introductory Topics in South Asian Literature and Culture (260-0-20)
Topic
Kings, Courtesans, and Khan Artists Picturizing Is
Instructors
Daniel Joseph Majchrowicz
847/467-5829
1880 Campus Drive, Kresge Hall, Office 4-423
Office Hours: varies by quarter, please contact instructor
Meeting Info
Kresge Centennial Hall 2-425: Tues, Thurs 2:00PM - 3:20PM
Overview of class
AY22-23
India is home to the second largest population of Muslims on earth. It's also host to the world's largest film industry, best known as Bollywood. Little wonder, then, that Bollywood films regularly feature Muslim characters, social spaces, and cultural references that are readily marked or coded as "Islamic." But in spite of a large coterie of Muslims working within the industry - as actors, song writers, or producers - the representation of Muslims in Indian films has consistently raised complex issues around ideas of identity and belonging in a nation where they constitute a clear (and conspicuous) minority. We will read these films against the historical backdrop of the search for national identity in post-colonial India, as well as in the context of the so-called "war on terror." Students will be given the opportunity not only to learn about Indian (particularly Bombay) cinema, but also to explore how cinematic representations intersect with issues of identity and belonging in the modern nation-state.
Learning Objectives
- Develop a familiarity with cinema traditions in India - Nurture skills in critically analyzing texts - Examine the relationship between art, culture and nationalism - Refine analytical and writing skills
Teaching Method
Seminar-style
Evaluation Method
In-class discussion and short essays
Class Materials (Required)
None
Class Attributes
Literature & Fine Arts Distro Area