Advanced Topics in South Asian Languages and Cultures (360-0-20)

Topic

ADVANCED READINGS IN HINDI-URDU: LYRICAL POETRY FR

Instructors

Daniel Majchrowicz
847/467-5829
1880 Campus Drive, Kresge Hall, Office 4-423
Office Hours: varies by quarter, please contact instructor

Meeting Info

Kresge 4438 Asian LC Sem Rm: Wed 5:00PM - 7:50PM

Overview of class

AY 25-26. Advanced Readings in Hindi-Urdu: Lyrical Poetry from Sufism to Film Songs

The ghazal is by far the most popular genre of poetry in Hindi-Urdu. Composed of short, independent verses that can be recited at just the right moment to woo a lover or verbally attack a rival, familiarity with this genre is an indispensable companion for understanding songs, movies, and even daily life in much of South Asia. In this course we will study the structure and stock characters of the "ghazal universe" to become familiar with names such as Laila and Majnun. We will study the verses of master poets and examine how the genre electrifies social and political spaces in India and Pakistan even today. And we will each memorize a few verses ourselves so that, on completion of this course, students will be equipped to woo a lover or attack a rival on the battlefield of lyricism.

Registration Requirements

This course is open to native speakers and advanced students of Hindi-Urdu.

Class Materials (Required)

Materials will be provided in both Hindi and Urdu scripts.

Class Attributes

Advanced Expression
Literature and Arts Foundational Discipline
Literature & Fine Arts Distro Area