The course will treat in depth topics in Islamic architecture and topics in Islamic art. Subjects addressed may include painting, calligraphy, and book production.

Throughout the history of Islam, artisans, architects, and artists have created new forms referencing earlier ones they find inspiring. From seventh-century Arabia to the present, which visual forms have served as meaningful references? How and why has the answer to this question shifted across time and space? Learn to recognize major types and styles of Islam's medieval and early modern mosques, memorials, gardens, and palaces, and to chart basic histories for its manuscripts, metalwork, textiles, and ceramics. Learn to describe the visual forms of specific monuments and artifacts in relation to such factors as production techniques, markets, modes of piety, and models of political legitimacy. Learn to situate all the above against the shifting historical map of the Islamic world, and against the geopolitical histories of the land and sea routes linking Asia, Africa, and Europe. This course fulfills the following Major requirements: Geographical area (D), and Chronological period (I) OR (II), based on the topic of the final research paper or project.

Credit Restrictions

Students will receive no credit for MELC C121A after completing HISTART 121A, NE STUD 121A, or MELC 121A. A deficient grade in MELC C121A may be removed by taking NE STUD 121A, NE STUD 121A, or MELC 121A.

Repeat Rules

Requirements class fulfills