ARBC 351: Contemporary Arabic Literature

Course Description

This course will explore the literary works of contemporary Arab writers from countries such as Iraq, Lebanon, Palestine, Algeria, France, and the U.S. Although the course covers a variety of literary genres such as the short story, memoirs, and poetry, it puts special emphasis on the Arab contemporary novel. It also provides an in-depth critical analysis of major themes dealt with by authors in their works such as identity, minority, gender, nationality, war, family, ethnicity, religion, homeland and home, politics, society and culture. Major historical, political, social, cultural, artistic and literary factors shaping and driving contemporary Arabic literary writings today also will be thoroughly examined. The course will feature films and documentaries in addition to internet-based activities. This course is a Project Based Learning centered on a major project and/or on a research question related to the topic of the class and will imply hands-on work for a good portion of the semester. The project can be local or international community-driven and will connect to real-life experiences.