Introduction to Arabic Culture

Key information

Start date: 25 September 2023
End date: 15 December 2023
Duration: Term 1
Module code: 155901205
FHEQ Level: 5
Credits: 15

Module overview

This is an introductory course to Arabic Culture with focus on the Modern Arab Middle East. On completion of this course, students will have gained basic knowledge of:

(1) Theories and methods of studying culture and (2) History of development of Arabic culture as well as the major cultural institutions in the contemporary Arab World.

Prerequisites

None.

Workload

The module is taught over 10 weeks with one hour classroom time per week

Scope and syllabus

This module will cover topics including religious and ethnic diversity, impact of the West, stereotyping, the role of tradition, education (traditional and modern), family structure and value, gender politics, media, life in city, town and village, labour and labour migration, the Palestinian refugee problem and Arab exile communities, culinary cultures, and tourism.

Method of assessment

40% - An annotated map on PowerPoint, 1,000 words
60% - A written argument-driven essay, 1,500 words, or a virtual presentation (narrated PPT or MP4 video), 15 minutes
The exact assessment deadline dates are published on the relevant module Moodle/BLE page

Disclaimer

Important notice regarding changes to programmes and modules

Key staff

Professor of Arabic and Comparative Literature

Professor Wen-chin Ouyang

Classical and modern Arabic literature and culture, with emphasis on narrative and storytelling, comparative narratology and critical theory, and gendered thinking and discourse.