Introductory Topics in Middle East and North African Studies (290-6-1)
Topic
Foodways of Turkey: A Multi-ethnic Look at Food, C
Instructors
Oya Topcuoglu
847/491-2402
Crowe 4-121
Meeting Info
Fisk Hall 114: Mon, Wed 2:00PM - 3:20PM
Overview of class
Course title: Foodways of Turkey: A Multi-ethnic Look at Food, Culture and Identity
Food represents an integral part of livelihood, culture and identity. Food production, consumption and sharing also have symbolic and ideological meanings. In this course we will explore the complex relationships between food, culture and society through the lens of Turkish food from the Middle Ages to the present. Using an array of primary and secondary sources from history, anthropology, literature, film and media, we will situate culinary practices and their use in constructing and expressing cultural, regional and national identities within the social, historical and political context of Turkey and the wider Middle East. We will study the consumption of and attitudes toward specific foodstuffs, gauging the relevance of items like coffee in the pre-modern world and baklava in modern politics. We will investigate the role of minorities and immigrants in shaping culinary practices in and outside Turkey; the effects of climate change on food production and scarcity; the role of globalization on national cuisine; and representations of Turkish food culture in world literature and film.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this course students will be able to:
• Develop a broad understanding of Turkish food culture and cuisine, drawing connections to the social, historical, and political context of Turkey and the wider Middle East
• Analyze, compare and critique primary and secondary sources from a variety of disciplines, including history, anthropology, sociology, literature, media and the arts
• Critically evaluate and reflect on scholarly work relating to Turkish culture and history
• Produce knowledge collaboratively (reflect and express) through group discussions and group projects
• Conduct original field research and present their results to their peers
• Make clear, concise and persuasive arguments, orally and in writing in various formats (e.g. personal essay, critical analysis/response paper, academic research paper), incorporating careful analysis of primary and secondary materials
Class Attributes
Literature and Arts Foundational Discipline
Literature & Fine Arts Distro Area