WLC 380

Arabic Literature: Major Genres and Literary Figures

The course provides an instructive and enjoyable learning journey into Arabic literature that covers chronologically the period from the classical period (6th century CE) to modern times. Throughout this course students will be analyzing literary works that reflect major forms and genres predominant in Arabic literature. Such is the case such as poetry (classical and modern), Qur'an (Islam's sacred text), belletristic prose and narrative, novel, short story, drama and criticism. In doing so, the course touches upon primary themes, prominent literary figures, and well-known works. Students, therefore, will be critically reading selected works that played a major role in the evolution of Arabic literature from the classical to contemporary period. In pursuing these learning premises, the course offers analyses about literary criticism, connections between classical and modern Arabic literature, history, politics, and Arab cultural identity. The course is taught in English by using Arabic texts translated into English. The class meets the General Education requirements under writing across the curriculum (WAC) skill.

Units: 3.0