The Qur’an WT

In this course we will examine the foundational text of the Islamic tradition, the Qur’an, as an influential piece of literature in the context of late antiquity and also as a sacred Scripture, the Spoken Word of God. It functions as a major source of inspiration for Muslims and guides their imagination across time and space. We will start with the formation of the Qur’an in the context of major historical developments before, during, and after the life of the Prophet in the Near East. We will then survey the structure and rhetoric of the Qur’an with special attention to and differences with the Christian and Jewish canons. We will examine the different schools of Qur’anic exegesis and their developments and notions of scriptural reasoning. The course will end with a multi-media workshop on aesthetic and artistic aspects of Muslim approach to the Qur’an. No previous knowledge of Islam is required. 3 hrs. lect./disc.