Studies in Islam (476-0-20)

Topic

Art of Devotion: Islam and Aesthetics

Instructors

Usman Hamid

Meeting Info

Crowe 4-130 Rel Studies Sem Rm: Thurs 2:30PM - 5:00PM

Overview of class

Art of Devotion: Islam and Aesthetics
What is the relationship between aesthetics, material culture, and religious experience? In this course we explore this question by examining the aesthetic traditions of Islam, focusing on how Muslims have used literature, visual art, musical performance, and architecture as modes of religious expression and creativity. Through studying aesthetics and devotion in the Islamic tradition, we will reflect on questions of cultural appropriation and reuse, politics of representation, and the global circulation of objects, peoples, and capital. Additionally, we will consider how aesthetics might help us better understand the role of affect, senses, and embodiment in Islam.

Class Materials (Suggested)

Readings will be made available.

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Reserved for graduate students or permission only.
Add Consent: Department Consent Required