Terms offered: Fall 2020, Fall 2019, Fall 2018
This course emphasizes the functional usage of Arabic in the four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Authentic audio, video, and reading materials are presented from the beginning, and students are encouraged to be creative with the language in and out of class.
Elementary Arabic: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2020, Spring 2019, Spring 2018
This course emphasizes the functional usage of Arabic in the four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Authentic audio, video, and reading materials are presented from the beginning, and students are encouraged to be creative with the language in and out of class.
Elementary Arabic: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Summer 2020 8 Week Session, Summer 2019 8 Week Session, Summer 2018 8 Week Session
An eight-week intensive course intended to teach skills in oral comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing Arabic. Using up-to-date language teaching and proficiency-oriented methodologies, the course also covers the basics of Arabic morphology, syntax, and grammar. While the course's vocabulary is designed to serve the needs of daily conversation in any part of the Arabic speaking world, its simultaneous attention to the rules of morphology, syntax, and grammar serves the needs of the prospective scholar.
Intensive Elementary Arabic: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Summer 2003 10 Week Session
The course is designed to guide students through Arabic grammar with a systematic treatment of the subject and the use of classical Arabic texts.
Arabic for Reading Knowledge: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Summer 2003 10 Week Session, Summer 1997 10 Week Session
Practice in speaking an Arabic dialect.
Spoken Arabic: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2009, Spring 2003
Practice in speaking an Arabic dialect.
Spoken Arabic: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2020, Fall 2019, Fall 2018
This course is proficiency oriented. Authentic reading in modern standard and classical Arabic and the understanding and application of grammatical and stylistic rules are emphasized. Students deliver oral presentations and write academic papers in Arabic.
Intermediate Arabic: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2020, Spring 2019, Spring 2018
This course is proficiency oriented. Authentic reading in modern standard and classical Arabic and the understanding and application of grammatical and stylistic rules are emphasized. Students deliver oral presentations and write academic papers in Arabic.
Intermediate Arabic: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Summer 2020 8 Week Session, Summer 2019 8 Week Session, Summer 2017 8 Week Session
This course is equivalent to a full year of intermediate level Arabic. It will deepen skills in speaking, comprehending, reading, and writing Modern Standard Arabic.
Intermediate Arabic: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Summer 1997 10 Week Session, Summer 1995 10 Week Session
This course will include grammatical and stylistic analysis of Arabic texts from both the classical and the modern periods. Class will be conducted entirely in Arabic.
Advanced Arabic: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2020, Fall 2019, Fall 2018
Intensive reading and analysis of texts of different genres. Guest lectures, films, documentaries, oral presentations, research papers. Formal and informal styles of writing and correspondence. Extensive vocabulary building.
Advanced Arabic: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2020, Spring 2019, Spring 2018
Intensive reading and analysis of texts of different genres. Guest lectures, films, documentaries, oral presentations, research papers. Formal and informal styles of writing and correspondence. Extensive vocabulary building.
Advanced Arabic: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Prior to 2007
This course is designed for students who wish to concentrate on contemporary prose. Reading and analysis of modern Arabic fiction, including short stories, drama, the novel, and expository prose.
Modern Arabic Prose: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2020, Fall 2019, Fall 2018
This course is designed for students who wish to concentrate on Arabic of the classical periods of Arab and Islamic civilization. Reading and analysis of literary texts of various genres, including essays, biography, and travel literature.
Classical Arabic Prose: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Prior to 2007
Readings and analysis of 20th-century Arabic poetry.
Modern Arabic Poetry: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2017, Fall 2008, Fall 2006
Readings and analysis of poetry from the pre-Islamic through the classical periods.
Classical Arabic Poetry: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2018, Spring 2017, Spring 2016
Readings from the classical historians and geographers and from contemporary scholarship. Development of historiography.
Arabic Historical and Geographical Texts: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2017, Fall 2016, Fall 2015
Readings in the basic texts of Islam (Qur'an, Huran, Hadith, Sira, commentary) and in theological, mystical, and philosophical texts.
Islamic Religious and Philosophical Texts in Arabic: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2015, Fall 2014, Fall 2013
This course is designed primarily for majors and prospective majors in Arabic studies. The Classical Periods: A literary-historical survey of Arabic literature from pre-Islamic times to the middle of the thirteenth century, with emphasis on the more important achievements of major Arab authors.
Survey of Arabic Literature (in Arabic): Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2020, Spring 2019, Fall 2018
This course is designed primarily for majors and prospective majors in Arabic studies. The Post-Abbasid and Modern Periods: A literary-historical survey of Arabic literature from the middle of the thirteenth century to the present.
Survey of Arabic Literature (in Arabic): Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2019, Fall 2017
This course introduces students to a standard colloquial Arabic and the cultures of the region in which it spoken. The colloquial will change based on availability. The focus of the course is on speaking and listening, but also includes readings from printed materials. The course draws on various media including advertisements, theater, and film composed in colloquial style. This course will also expose students to literature composed in colloquial. Moreover, students will study the social stratification in the society along with an analysis of the speech of each social level. Students use their knowledge of Modern Standard Arabic as a platform for learning to communicate in colloquial.
Colloquial Arabic: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2020, Spring 2018
This course introduces students to Egyptian Colloquial Arabic and the cultures of the region in which it is spoken. The focus of the course is on speaking and listening, but also includes readings from printed materials. The course draws on various media including advertisements, theater, and film composed in colloquial style. This course will also expose students to literature composed in colloquial. Moreover, students will study the social stratification in the Egyptian society along with a analysis of the speech of each social level. Students use their knowledge of Modern Standard Arabic as a platform for learning to communicate in Egyptian colloquial.
Colloquial Arabic: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2003
Directed study centered upon preparation of an honors thesis.
Senior Honors: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Summer 2000 10 Week Session
Instruction in areas not covered by regularly scheduled courses.
Directed Group Study for Upper Division Students: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 1998
Enrollment restrictions apply; see the Introduction to Courses and Curricula section of this catalog.
Supervised Independent Study and Research: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2014, Spring 2011, Spring 2007
Study of selected grammatical phenomena of Arabic based on readings from the classical Arabic grammarians, on the modern study of linguistics in the Arab world, and on the Western grammatical tradition.
Arabic Grammatical Tradition: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2017, Spring 2015, Spring 2013
The history of Arabic from its Semitic antecedents through the formation of the modern dialects.
History of Arabic: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2011, Fall 2010, Spring 2009
Intensive study of modern poetry in relation to the cultural tradition.
Topics in Modern Arabic Literature: Poetry: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2020, Spring 2019, Fall 2018
A close reading and careful literary analysis of significant authors and specific topics in Classical Arabic prose or poetry or both.
Seminar in Classical Arabic Literature: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2009, Spring 2006, Spring 2004
This course examines the origins, status, and function of literary theory in the making of modern Arabic literature. Questions of cultural influence, literary genres, forms, modes, and techniques of representation are all central to the interests of this course.
Seminar: Modernist Arabic Poetics: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019
Special topics in Arabic. Topics vary and are announced at the beginning of each semester.
Seminar: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2020, Fall 2018, Fall 2017
Akkadian was the language of literature, diplomacy, law, commerce, religion, and technical knowledge in Mesopotamia (ancient Iraq). This course offers students the fundamentals in the language and cuneiform script in which the Hammurabi Laws, the Epic of Gilgamesh, the Babylonian Creation, along with many other texts, were written. The study of Akkadian will enable students to read the classics of Akkadian literature and understand the emergence and development of the earliest writing system, cities and states, social and economic structures, and religious beliefs. This course is approved for UC Berkeley majors in Linguistics, as well as filling a requirement for the Near Eastern Civilization major.
Elementary Akkadian: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2019, Spring 2018, Spring 2017
Akkadian was the language of literature, diplomacy, law, commerce, religion, and technical knowledge in Mesopotamia (ancient Iraq). This course offers students the fundamentals in the language and cuneiform script in which the Hammurabi Laws, the Epic of Gilgamesh, the Babylonian Creation, along with many other texts, were written. The study of Akkadian will enable students to read the classics of Akkadian literature and understand the emergence and development of the earliest writing system, cities and states, social and economic structures, and religious beliefs. This course is approved for UC Berkeley majors in Linguistics and for the Near Eastern Civilization major.
Elementary Akkadian: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2019, Fall 2016, Fall 2015
In each semester of this course, the student who has completed the first year of the study of Akkadian will read a variety of texts in the cuneiform script either of the Old Babylonian or the Neo-Assyrian periods. In any semester, the texts to be read may be drawn from a variety of text genres: legal, mythological, historical, prayer, etc., but each semester will focus on only one genre.
Selected Readings in Akkadian: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2020, Spring 2017, Spring 2016
In each semester of this course, the student who has completed the first year of the study of Akkadian will read a variety of texts in the cuneiform script either of the Old Babylonian or the Neo-Assyrian periods. In any semester, the texts to be read may be drawn from a variety of text genres: legal, mythological, historical, prayer, etc., but each semester will focus on only one genre.
Selected Readings in Akkadian: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2020, Fall 2017, Fall 2015
Introduction to Sumerian grammar and writing.
Elementary Sumerian: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2018, Spring 2016, Spring 2013
Introduction to Sumerian grammar and writing.
Elementary Sumerian: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2016, Fall 2014, Fall 2013
Reading of texts selected for clarity of script, simplicity of vocabulary, and historical and cultural significance.
Selected Readings in Sumerian: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2017, Spring 2015, Spring 2014
Reading of texts selected for clarity of script, simplicity of vocabulary, and historical and cultural significance.
Selected Readings in Sumerian: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2013, Fall 2008, Fall 2001
Introduction to Cuneiform Hittite language and grammar with reading of selected historical and religious texts.
Elementary Hittite: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2009, Spring 2002, Spring 2000
Introduction to Cuneiform Hittite language and grammar with reading of selected historical and religious texts.
Elementary Hittite: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2017
Directed study centered upon preparation of an honors thesis.
Senior Honors: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Prior to 2007
Instruction in areas not covered by regularly scheduled courses.
Directed Group Study for Upper Division Students: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2017
Enrollment is restricted by regulations shown in the .
Supervised Independent Study and Research: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2020, Fall 2019, Fall 2018
Reading of a variety of genres of Akkadian documents and literature. Texts selected are based on the individual needs of participating students.
Advanced Akkadian: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2019, Spring 2018, Spring 2017
Reading of a variety of genres of Akkadian documents and literature. Texts selected are based on the individual needs of participating students.
Advanced Akkadian: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Spring 2018
Special topics in Cuneiform. Topics vary and are announced at the beginning of each semester.
Seminar: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2019, Fall 2017, Fall 2015
An introductory course intended for students who have never before studied Middle Egyptian, the stage of the ancient Egyptian language used as a written language from ca. 2100 BCE until 300 CE. This course introduces the principles of the hieroglyphic writing system, and the grammar, syntax, and vocabulary necessary to begin reading,
transliterating, and translating Middle Egyptian texts. Basic grammar covered includes non-verbal sentences and infinitival forms.
Elementary Egyptian: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2020, Spring 2018, Spring 2016
This course builds upon material introduced in Egyptian 100A, continuing the study of the hieroglyphic writing system of Middle Egyptian, the stage of the ancient language used in its written form from ca. 2100 BCE until 300 CE. Basic grammar covered includes all forms of verbal sentences and clauses. After completing the sequence Egyptian 100A and Egyptian 100B, the student will have the foundation necessary to read, transliterate, and translate Middle Egyptian texts. EGYPTIAN 100A and EGYPTIAN 100 B are required prerequisites for any of the other ancient Egyptian language courses offered by the Near Eastern Studies Department.
Elementary Egyptian: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2018, Fall 2016, Fall 2014
Readings in Middle Egyptian hieroglyphic and hieratic texts.
Intermediate Egyptian: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2019, Spring 2017, Spring 2015
Readings in Middle Egyptian hieroglyphic and hieratic texts.
Intermediate Egyptian: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2002, Fall 2000, Spring 1997
Introduction to Sahidic dialect.
Elementary Coptic: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2003, Spring 2001
Readings in Sahidic, other dialects.
Elementary Coptic: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Prior to 2007
Directed study centered upon preparation of an honors thesis.
Senior Honors: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Prior to 2007
Instruction in areas not covered by regularly scheduled courses.
Directed Group Study for Upper Division Students: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Prior to 2007
Enrollment is restricted by regulations shown in the .
Supervised Independent Study and Research: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2019, Fall 2016, Fall 2011
The course will be based on the reading, translation, grammatical and philological analysis of Middle Egyptian literary and magical texts. Readings include spells of the ancient Egyptian funerary corpora of the Coffin Texts and Book of the Dead, texts from stelae of the Middle Kingdom, the Middle Kingdom story of Sinuhe.
Middle Egyptian Texts: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2007, Fall 2005, Spring 2000
The course is designed as a continuation of Egypt 201A and will be based on the same type of reading, translation, grammatical and philological analysis of the Middle Egyptian literary and magical texts of 201A but requiring a deeper knowledge of the grammar and translation techniques. Readings will include magical spells for daily and funerary use, texts from stelae, the story of the “Eloquent Peasant” and extracts from the ancient Egyptian “Wisdom Literature.”
Middle Egyptian Texts: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2020
Hieratic is the cursive form of the ancient Egyptian hieroglyphic script, which was mostly written on papyrus and ostraca (potsherds used as a writing surface) with a brush and ink. This course introduces the Hieratic writing system used in Middle and Late Egyptian texts. The course will include reading, transcription, and translation of selected texts written in Hieratic, dating from the Old Kingdom to the Ramesside Period.
Hieratic: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2019, Spring 2018, Spring 2017
Philological analysis of texts of a single genre and period.
Egyptian Texts: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Not yet offered
This course is designed to introduce students to the study of Late Egyptian, a later stage of the ancient Egyptian language used in the New Kingdom from ca 1500 to 1000 BCE. This course will cover Late Egyptian grammar through reading and translating literary texts written in both hieroglyphic and Hieratic scripts, in particular, the main literary tales of the “Two Brothers” and “Wenamun” will be examined.
Late Egyptian: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2020
Demotic (derived from the Greek word demos, meaning "people") is the spoken and written language used by the people of Egypt during the Saite, Persian, Ptolemaic, and Roman periods (664 BCE–452 CE). Knowledge of this stage and script of the ancient language is essential for a proper understanding of Egypt during the later periods. After an introduction to the script and grammar (including non-verbal sentences and simple verbal forms), we will read and translate texts chosen from a wide variety of sources: mummy labels, inscribed votive stelae, liturgical, funerary, and magical texts, and oracles.
Introduction to Demotic: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Not yet offered
This course builds upon material introduced in Egyptian 204A, continuing the study of Demotic (derived from the Greek word demos, meaning “people”), the stage of the ancient Egyptian language used by the people of Egypt during the Saite, Persian, Ptolemaic, and Roman periods (664 BCE-452 CE). Knowledge of this stage and script of the ancient language is essential for a proper understanding of Egypt during the later periods. Grammar covered this semester includes all forms of verbal sentences and clauses. We will read from a variety of genres, including oaths, marriage contracts, and literary, funerary, magical, and mythological texts. Students will obtain skills to transliterate, translate, and grammatically analyze Demotic texts.
Demotic Texts: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Not yet offered
This course introduces the hieroglyphic texts of the temples of the Ptolemaic and Roman periods--a time when an increase in the number of signs, and the values that they could hold, widened the scribal playing field for creating expressions that function on multiple aural, visual, and thematic levels. In addition to studying the language, grammar, content, and purpose of the texts, we will examine individual scribal techniques used to foreground words and phrases singled out for emphasis, showing how they create interconnections between texts, reliefs, and architecture in the three-dimensional space of the temple.
Ptolemaic Egyptian Hieroglyphic Texts: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2020, Fall 2019, Fall 2018

Elementary Hebrew: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2020, Spring 2019, Spring 2018

Elementary Hebrew: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Summer 2007 10 Week Session, Summer 2007 8 Week Session, Summer 2006 10 Week Session
An intensive course in modern Israeli Hebrew. The course covers the basic syntactic and morphological patterns of modern Hebrew through the teaching and practice of communicative and interactive language skills in the four areas of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The course is equivalent to two semesters of Hebrew in the regular academic year.
Intensive Elementary Hebrew: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Prior to 2007
Designed for heritage students who possess oral skills (speaking/comprehension, though limited) but need to improve their writing and reading abilities, and expand their knowledge of Hebrew grammar and syntax. Completion of 11A-11B will prepare the student to take Hebrew 20A, Intermediate Hebrew.
Reading and Composition for Hebrew Speaking Students: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Prior to 2007
Designed for heritage students who possess oral skills (speaking/comprehension, though limited) but need to improve their writing and reading abilities, and expand their knowledge of Hebrew grammar and syntax. Completion of 11A-11B will prepare the student to take Hebrew 20A, Intermediate Hebrew.
Reading and Composition for Hebrew-Speaking Students: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2020, Fall 2019, Fall 2018

Intermediate Hebrew: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2018, Spring 2016, Spring 2015

Intermediate Hebrew: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Summer 1997 10 Week Session, Summer 1996 10 Week Session, Summer 1995 10 Week Session
This course is equivalent to a full year of intermediate Hebrew. It will deepen skills in speaking, understanding, reading, and writing modern Israeli Hebrew.
Intermediate Hebrew: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2020, Fall 2019, Fall 2018
Advanced Hebrew, especially designed for those going on to the study of modern Hebrew literature. Vocabulary building, grammar review, and literary analysis of a sampling of modern texts.
Advanced Hebrew: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2020, Spring 2019, Spring 2018
Advanced Hebrew, especially designed for those going on to the study of modern Hebrew literature. Vocabulary building, grammar review, and literary analysis of a sampling of modern texts.
Advanced Hebrew: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2008, Fall 2002, Fall 1998
Texts from the rabbinic period (Mishnah, Tosefta, Talmud, and Midrash) and an introduction to the languages of rabbinic texts.
Postbiblical Hebrew Texts: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2014, Spring 2011, Spring 2009
Texts from the rabbinic period (Mishnah, Tosefta, Talmud, and Midrash) and an introduction to the languages of rabbinic texts.
Postbiblical Hebrew Texts: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2004
Study of midrashic, exegetical, halakhic (legal), poetic, apocalyptic, messianic, or historical texts.
Later Rabbinic and Medieval Hebrew Texts: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Prior to 2007
Study of midrashic, exegetical, halakhic (legal), poetic, apocalyptic, messianic, or historical texts.
Later Rabbinic and Medieval Hebrew Texts: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2020, Fall 2019, Fall 2018
A close reading of selected works of modern Hebrew fiction, poetry, and drama in their cultural and historical contexts. Topics vary from year to year and include literature and politics, eros and gender, memory and nationalism, Middle-Eastern and European aspects of Israeli literature and culture.
Modern Hebrew Literature and Culture: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Spring 2015
A close reading of selected works of modern Hebrew fiction, poetry, and drama in their cultural and historical contexts. Topics vary from year to year and include literature and politics, eros and gender, memory and nationalism, Middle-Eastern and European aspects of Israeli literature and culture.
Modern Hebrew Literature and Culture: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 1999
An analysis of Hebrew grammar, syntax, semantics, morphology, history of the language, fixed expressions, discourse analysis, contrastive features of Hebrew and English in the context of contemporary linguistic theories.
The Structure of Modern Hebrew: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2011, Spring 2008
An analysis of Hebrew grammar, syntax, semantics, morphology, history of the language, fixed expressions, discourse analysis, contrastive features of Hebrew and English in the context of contemporary linguistic theories.
The Structure of Modern Hebrew: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2018, Fall 2017, Fall 2016
An introduction to the language of the Hebrew Bible.
Elementary Biblical Hebrew: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2019, Spring 2018, Spring 2017
An introduction to the language of the Hebrew Bible.
Elementary Biblical Hebrew: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Summer 2009 10 Week Session, Summer 2009 Second 6 Week Session, Summer 2008 Second 6 Week Session
An introduction to the language of the Hebrew bible.
Elementary Biblical Hebrew: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2015, Fall 2011, Fall 2009
The tools and procedure of biblical exegesis applied to simple narrative texts.
Biblical Hebrew Texts: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2016, Spring 2012, Spring 2010
The tools and procedure of biblical exegesis applied to simple narrative texts.
Biblical Hebrew Texts: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Prior to 2007
A systematic study of the Prophets beginning with Isaiah.
Intermediate Biblical Texts: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2011, Fall 2010, Fall 2002
In this course, we will read and analyze closely talmudic texts in the original languages--Hebrew and Aramaic--together with selected medieval commentaries. The primary focus of the course will be on the acquisition of facility in reading the Talmud, comprehension of philological and historical-cultural issues and methods of study, as well as understanding the formative relation of the Talmud to the structures and practices of traditional Jewish cultures.
The Art and Culture of the Talmud: Advanced Textual Analysis: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2001
In this course, we will read and analyze closely talmudic texts in the original languages--Hebrew and Aramaic--together with selected medieval commentaries. The primary focus of the course will be on the acquisition of facility in reading the Talmud, comprehension of philological and historical-cultural issues and methods of study, as well as understanding the formative relation of the Talmud to the structures and practices of traditional Jewish cultures.
The Art and Culture of the Talmud: Advanced Textual Analysis: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2020, Spring 2016, Spring 2011
Topics explore special themes and problems in Hebrew language and literature. They often reflect the research interests of the instructor and supplement regular curricular offerings. Specific descriptions of current offerings are available through the department.
Special Topics in Hebrew: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2003
Directed study centered upon preparation of an honors thesis.
Senior Honors: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2016, Spring 2002, Fall 2001
Instruction in areas not covered by regularly scheduled courses.
Directed Group Study for Upper Division Students: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2016, Fall 2003, Spring 1999
Enrollment is restricted by regulations shown in the .
Supervised Independent Study and Research: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2017, Fall 2013, Fall 2009
The exegesis of a biblical book in the light of its ancient Near Eastern background.
Advanced Biblical Hebrew Texts: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2020, Fall 2019, Fall 2018
Historical and literary study of Hebrew and Aramaic Judaic texts (e.g., Talmud and Midrash).
Advanced Late Antique Hebrew Texts: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2020, Spring 2019, Spring 2018
Historical and literary study of Hebrew and Aramaic Judaic texts (e.g., Talmud and Midrash).
Advanced Late Antique Hebrew Texts: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2008, Fall 2004, Fall 1998
Literary analysis of belletristic Hebrew texts, either prose or poetry, chiefly from the Iberian medieval period.
Advanced Medieval Hebrew Texts: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2018, Spring 2011, Spring 2002
Literary analysis of belletristic Hebrew texts, either prose or poetry, chiefly from the Iberian medieval period.
Advanced Medieval Hebrew Texts: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2020, Fall 2018, Fall 2014
Critical approaches to the history and textual practices of modern Hebrew poetry and fiction. Alternating focus between period, genre, and author, seminar topics include stylistic developments in Hebrew poetry and fiction from the Enlightenment to the present, modernism, and modernity, the creation of the modern Hebrew novel, women writers and the Hebrew canon, and single-author seminars.
Advanced Modern Hebrew Literature and Culture: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Spring 2012
Critical approaches to the history and textual practices of modern Hebrew poetry and fiction. Alternating focus between period, genre, and author, seminar topics include stylistic developments in Hebrew poetry and fiction from the Enlightenment to the present, modernism, and modernity, the creation of the modern Hebrew novel, women writers and the Hebrew canon, and single-author seminars.
Advanced Modern Hebrew Literature and Culture: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Fall 2015
Focus on biblical texts seen from a literary point of view, attempting to establish connections with later Hebrew literature.
Ancient and Modern Hebrew Literary Texts: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Fall 2016
Special topics in Hebrew. Topics vary and are announced at the beginning of each semester.
Seminar: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2012, Fall 2010, Fall 2007
The methodology of teaching Hebrew as a foreign language at the college level. Lectures on contrastive analysis of English and Hebrew, classroom strategies, and the development of instructional materials. Required of all new Graduate Student Instructors in Hebrew.
Teaching Hebrew in College: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2013, Spring 2002, Spring 2001
The methodology of teaching Hebrew as a foreign language at the college level. Lectures on contrastive analysis of English and Hebrew, classroom strategies, and the development of instructional materials. Required of all new Graduate Student Instructors in Hebrew.
Teaching Hebrew in College: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2020, Summer 2020 Second 6 Week Session, Fall 2019
Expository writing based on analysis of selected texts or literatures in translation or writings interpreting the material culture of the ancient Near or modern Middle East. Specific topics vary with instructor. R1A satisfies the first half of the Reading and Composition requirement, and R1B satisfies the second half.
Reading and Composition in Near Eastern Studies: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Summer 2020 Second 6 Week Session, Spring 2020, Spring 2019
Expository writing based on analysis of selected texts or literatures in translation or writings interpreting the material culture of the ancient Near or modern Middle East. Specific topics vary with instructor. R1A satisfies the first half of the Reading and Composition requirement, and R1B satisfies the second half.
Reading and Composition in Near Eastern Studies: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2020, Fall 2019, Fall 2018
The background and present status of the ethnic and religious groups in the Arab states, Turkey, Israel, and Iran.
Introduction to the Near East: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2020, Spring 2018, Spring 2017
The ancient Near East (present-day Iran, Iraq, Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, Israel, and Turkey) is considered the cradle of civilization. Here in Mesopotamia and its neighboring regions, the first cities arose, writing was invented, armies forged the earliest empires, and complex religious beliefs were expressed in art and architecture. This course surveys the major archaeological sites and monuments from the earliest settlements to the conquest of the Near East by Alexander the Great in 330 BCE.
Introduction to Near Eastern Art and Archaeology: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Summer 1997 10 Week Session
The art and architecture of the Islamic lands from the seventh to the seventeenth centuries.
Introduction to Islamic Art: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2020, Summer 2020 Second 6 Week Session, Fall 2019
A general introduction to ancient Egypt, providing overview coverage of ancient Egyptian culture and society (history, art, religion, literature, language, social structure), Egyptian archaeology (pyramids, tombs, mummies, temples, cities, monuments, daily life), and the history and development of the modern discipline of Egyptology. Assumes no prior knowledge of subject. Almost all lectures are illustrated extensively by ​power point presentation. Discussion sections ​include meetings in the Phoebe Hearst Museum of Anthropology, which has the best collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts west of Chicago.
Introduction to Ancient Egypt: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019
The Berkeley Seminar Program has been designed to provide new students with the opportunity to explore an intellectual topic with a faculty member in a small-seminar setting. Berkeley Seminars are offered in all campus departments, and topics vary from department to department and semester to semester.
Freshman Seminars: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Summer 2019 Second 6 Week Session, Spring 2016, Fall 2001
Man’s fate on earth, friendship, love, suffering, and evil—every civilization considers these themes. This course surveys legends and myths of ancient Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq), a cradle of civilization, home to the world’s first cities and empires, and the first writing system. Students will read ancient literary masterpieces such as the Gilgamesh Epic, Creation and Flood Myths, and other Mesopotamian literary texts in translation.
Ancient Babylonian Legends and Myths: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2020, Fall 2019, Fall 2018, Fall 2017
This course will introduce the student not only to ancient and modern Central Asia, but also to the role played by the region in the shaping of the history of neighboring regions and regimes. The course will outline the history, languages, ethnicities, religions, and archaeology of the region and will acquaint the student with the historical foundations of some of the political, social and economic challenges for contemporary post-Soviet Central Asian republics.
Introduction to Central Asia: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2019, Summer 2001 10 Week Session, Summer 2000 10 Week Session
Readings from the Hebrew Bible in English translation.
Hebrew Bible in Translation: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2018, Fall 2016
A freshmen and sophomore seminar course will be taught by NES faculty in Fall 2016.
Freshmen & Sophomore Seminars: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Prior to 2007
This course examines major aspects of Arab culture through literature, art, film, and other media. Questions of religious, political, and philosophical nature co-exist in Arab culture with literary conventions and aesthetic norms. The course explores the dynamic interaction among these abiding concerns of Arab culture from pre-Islamic times to the present.
Imagining Arab Civilization: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2006, Spring 2006, Spring 2005
Topics vary.
Directed Group Study for Lower Division Students: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2013, Fall 2012, Fall 2011
Topics vary.
Supervised Independent Study: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2020, Spring 2017, Spring 2015
Women have been ignored or marginalized in much of past scholarship on ancient Egypt despite their highly visible presence in and importance to ancient Egyptian society. This course examines the roles of women and gender in ancient Egyptian society and belief systems. It reviews sources of evidence and interpretive frameworks for understanding the public and private roles of women and the definition of gender in ancient Egypt. It also places the women of ancient Egypt and ancient Egyptian gender constructions into comparative contexts with other ancient eastern Mediterranean and Near Eastern societies.
Women and Gender in Ancient Egypt: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Not yet offered
Ancient Egypt has fascinated visitors since antiquity to our modern imagination. From mummies, pyramids, and enchanting mythologies, these fanciful ideas have made their ways into books, movies, cartoons, and music. This course will explore the way ancient Egypt has been “consumed” in the West from the Napoleonic campaign to modern pop culture. We will study the impact that ancient Egypt and its wonderful monuments and civilization has had on art, literature, music, and even a number of religious and spiritual movements in the West as well as in Middle Eastern and African cultures.
EGYPTOMANIA: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2017, Spring 2014, Spring 2013
Archaeological survey of historical eras, major monuments and sites of ancient Egypt from the First Intermediate Period/Middle Kingdom to the end of the New Kingdom, incorporating methodological and theoretical issues and developments as relevant.
Archaeology of Ancient Egypt: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2017, Summer 2012 First 6 Week Session, Summer 2011 First 6 Week Session
A survey of the religious beliefs of the ancient Egyptians, based primarily upon the written sources.
Religion of Ancient Egypt: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2014, Spring 2013, Spring 2009
A survey of the religious beliefs of the ancient Egyptians, based primarily upon the written sources.
Religion of Ancient Egypt: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2020, Spring 1997
A survey of Babylonian religious beliefs and practices based on indigenous texts and monuments.
Babylonian Religion: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2017, Summer 2016 10 Week Session, Summer 2016 Second 6 Week Session, Summer 2015 Second 6 Week Session, Spring 2015
A survey of Babylonian religious beliefs and practices based on indigenous texts and monuments.
Babylonian Religion: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2018, Fall 2016, Fall 2014
A representative survey of original 3rd-1st millennium Cuneiform texts in translation. The Sumerian religious and scholastic tradition; myths of creation, hymns, epics and early historical material.
Ancient Mesopotamian Documents and Literature: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2010, Fall 2007, Fall 2005
Stylistic and iconographic study of Egyptian art and architecture from Predynastic times through the end of the pharaonic period. Discussion sections will focus on Egyptian material in the Hearst Museum collection. Will cover the period from Predynastic times until the end of the First Intermediate Period (ca. 5000-2000 BC).
Art and Architecture of Ancient Egypt: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2011, Spring 2008, Spring 2006
Stylistic and iconographic study of Egyptian art and architecture from Predynastic times through the end of the pharaonic period. Discussion sections will focus on Egyptian material in the Hearst Museum collection. Will consider the period from the end of the First Intermediate Period through the Graeco-Roman Period (ca. 2000 BC - 1st century AD).
Art and Architecture of Ancient Egypt: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2017, Fall 2015, Fall 2014
The course focuses on ancient astronomy from Babylonia to the Greco-Roman world. Readings from primary texts, including Babylonian astronomical and astrological documents (MUL.APIN, Enuma Anu Enlil, etc.) and Greek treatises such as Geminos= Introduction to the Phenomena and Ptolemy's Almagest are used. Problems of the calendar and of planetary motion are of special interest. Two different approaches to celestial phenomena are covered, one from cuneiform texts, predominantly arithmetical and linear and the other from hellenistic Greek antiquity, characteristically geometrical and introducing a quantitative dimension only after contact with and borrowing from Babylonian astronomy.
Ancient Astronomy: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2019, Spring 2017, Spring 2016
Ancient Mesopotamian political, cultural, and economic history from the invention of script to the Persian conquest of Babylon will be presented in survey, and one topic will be selected for in-depth study.
Mesopotamian History: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2019, Fall 2015, Spring 2008
The material and written culture of ancient Egypt constitutes one of the best preserved and most robust archaeological corpora to survive from antiquity as well as one of the most popular avenues for public engagement within the Humanities. Digital initiatives have become crucial for the conservation, documentation, and dissemination of ancient Egyptian material and texts to the broadest possible audience. This course will introduce students to the main projects of Egyptology in the field of archaeology, philology, and material studies, which apply techniques of Digital Humanities, from 3D modeling of objects and architectural spaces to digital epigraphy and the creation of searchable databases.
Digital Humanities and Egyptology: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2013, Spring 2006
A concise survey of Ancient Egyptian history from Late Predynastic times to the conquest of Alexander the Great.
Survey of Ancient Egyptian History: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2019, Fall 2017, Fall 2015
The most famous of Babylonian heroes is Gilgamesh, King of Uruk. The Gilgamesh Epic, recorded on twelve tablets in cuneiform, follows him in his quest for fame and eternal life. In this course, we will read the Gilgamesh Epic as well as several earlier texts around the same character. Moreover, we will read additional ancient texts that elucidate one or another aspect of the Epic. We will follow the traditions around Gilgamesh and see how his fame was used for literary, religious, and political purposes. Finally, we will look at some of the modern Gilgamesh interpretations.
Gilgamesh: King, Hero, and God: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2020, Spring 2018, Spring 2017
Today, much of the information we gather on any topic comes from Internet sources. Goal of this class is to increase students' skills in critically evaluating the scholarly value of information on the Ancient Near East that is to be found in web pages, e-journals, and online books. We will consider the goal and context of sources of information (touristic, commercial, scholarly, religious, etc.) and how this influences and filters the information provided. Although the class will focus on Internet resources, we will not neglect to use the same critical eye when using print media. The class will feature a number of collaborative projects in which this critical attitude may be practiced.
Digital Ancient Near East: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2019
Ancient Egypt was one of the earliest, most spectacular and most powerful of the world’s complex civilizations. Beginning as a series of Neolithic villages, it slowly transformed into a state and then a great kingdom with an all-powerful king. This course explores the first crucial journey of ancient Egypt, from the Neolithic through the Predynastic, Protodynastic, Early Dynastic and Old Kingdom eras. It overviews major aspects of the archaeology, art, history, and culture of Early Egypt as well as important methodological and theoretical issues.
Early Egypt: From Village to Pyramid: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2020
Second Millennium BCE Egypt boasted powerful centralized kingdoms and an international empire alternating with weaker decentralized periods of provincial power and foreign subjugation. This course overviews selected aspects of archaeology, art, history and culture of First Intermediate Period, Middle Kingdom, Second Intermediate Period and New Kingdom Egypt, as well as related methodological and theoretical issues of interpretation. Middle and New Kingdom Egypt especially were soaring heights of cultural achievements and political power.
Ancient Egypt: Power, Glory and Empire in the Second Millennium: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2012, Spring 2011
This course examines the roles that Near Eastern archaeology plays within the context of recent Middle Eastern history and society, from 1800 to the present day. Topics include the discipline's entanglement with imperialism, nationalism, science, tourism, the antiquities trade, media, and war. Students will examine and discuss ethnographies, technical reports, memoirs, films, and images.
Disciplining Near Eastern Archaeology: Explorers, Archaeologists, and Tourists in the Contemporary Middle East: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2011, Fall 2006
The art and architecture of early Mesopotamia will be explored in terms of the social, political, and cultural context of ancient Sumer, Babylonia, and Assyria during the period of urbanization and early kingdoms. The course provides an integrated picture of the arts of Mesopotamia and neighboring regions from 3500-1000 BCE with an emphasis on the development of visual narrative, the use of art in the expression of authority and legitimacy, and artistic interconnections between cultures. Collections on campus or in the area will be incorporated whenever possible.
The Art of Ancient Mesopotamia: 3500-1000 BCE: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2020, Fall 2012, Fall 2009
The royal art and architecture of later Mesopotamia will be explored in terms of the social, political, and cultural context of the great empires of Assyria, Babylon, and Persia. The course provides an integrated picture of the arts of Mesopotamia and neighboring regions from 1000-330 BCE with an emphasis on the development of visual narrative, the use of art in the expression of authority and legitimacy, and artistic interconnections between cultures. Collections on campus or in the area will be incorporated whenever possible.
The Art of Ancient Mesopotamia: 1000-330 BCE: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2015, Fall 2013, Fall 2012
The course will treat in depth topics in Islamic architecture and topics in Islamic art. Subjects addressed may include painting, calligraphy, and book production.
Topics in Islamic Art: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2007, Fall 2005, Spring 2003
The course will treat in depth topics in Islamic architecture and topics in Islamic art. Subjects addressed may include painting, calligraphy, and book production.
Topics in Islamic Art: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2015
A survey of the archaeology of Iran and its neighbors from the Paleolithic Era to the Sasanian period. Students will analyze architecture, artifacts, and written sources, discuss debates, and learn archaeological methods.
Iranian Archaeology: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2015, Fall 2013
A survey of Mesopotamian archaeology from the Paleolithic Era to 300 BCE investigating the origins of agriculture, urbanism, states, and empires in ancient Iraq, Syria, and Turkey. Students will analyze architecture, artifacts, and written sources, discuss current debates, and learn archaeological research methods.
Mesopotamian Archaeology: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2019, Fall 2014
A survey of Levantine archaeology from the Paleolithic Era to 300 BCE investigating the origins of agriculture, technologies, villages, and states in ancient Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine, and Syria. Prehistoric, Canaanite, and Israelite societies are emphasized. Students will analyze architecture, artifacts, and written sources, discuss debates, and learn archaeological methods.
Levantine Archaeology: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2003, Spring 2001
This course explores the history and culture of minority religious groups in the Middle East beginning in the Roman and Sasanian Eras and extending up to the current day. Evidence from Christian, Jewish, Zoroastrian, Yezidi, and Muslim minority communities will be investigated. Particular emphasis will be placed on the development of the Assyrians from their ancient origins in Mesopotamia, their Christianization, and to their modern global diaspora. Primary texts will be read in translation and material culture will be examined in class. Themes such as persecution, nationalism, and genocide, among other topics, will be studied.
The Assyrians and Other Religious Minorities in the Middle East: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2020, Spring 2019, Spring 2018
The course will outline art and archaeology of the Silk Roads from the 5th century BCE to the 10th century CE. A number of specific sites located along the Silk Roads will be selected and explored in depth, as examples which reveal the manifold cultural currents along the trade routes. Special attention will be paid to the eclecticism in Silk Road cultures brought about by the movement of peoples and merchandise which facilitated the spread and fusion along these trading routes of various ideas, cultural forms, art styles, and religious concepts. The social and political underpinnings of this eclecticism will be examined.
Silk Road Art and Archaeology: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2005
The course provides a broad introduction to the cultures of ancient Syria from the Neolithic period to 500 BCE. The diversity of cultures and their development over time will be assessed in light of the built environment and artistic production. Emphasis is placed on interpreting the material culture of the region within its social and political contexts.
Art and Archaeology of Ancient Syria: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Prior to 2007
This course explores the art and archaeology of ancient Turkey from the Neolithic period to the time of Alexander's conquest of the Near East (330 BCE). The survey will include geographic and historical considerations and will focus in particular on the ancient sites and monuments. Topics of discussion may include the Anatolian mother goddess, resource procurement, trade contacts, the Trojan war, and the rise of Phrygia and Lydia. A general theme throughout the course is the issue of defining indigenous, regional cultures and the ways in which they interacted with the broader ancient world.
The Art and Archaeology of Ancient Turkey: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Fall 2015
This course focuses on the arts of the Iranian cultural environment from the mid-first Millennium BCE through the first Millennium CE. Geographically, it covers a region stretching east from modern Iran to Afghanistan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, and north towards the Central Asian steppes, the ancestral home of important ancient Iranian pastoral nomadic tribes. The course will, among others, explore the art and archaeology of the Achaemenids, Parthians, Sasanians, and Sogdians to come to a better understanding of the social, political, and cultural underpinnings of the pre-Islamic Iranian world.
Arts of Iran and Central Asia: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2010, Fall 2005
This course analyzes the art, architecture, and archaeology of prehistoric Greece, concentrating on the Minoan and Mycenaean palatial arts of the Bronze Age (3000-1200 BCE). The evocative yet still enigmatic remains of palaces and funerary complexes, frescoes and vase paintings, and precious worked pieces will be closely examined in terms of their forms and cultural contexts. The place of prehistoric Greece in the international world of the eastern Mediterranean will also be explored.
Minoan and Mycenaean Art: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Prior to 2007
The Hebrew Bible is deeply embedded in the cultures of the ancient Mediterranean and Near East. In this course we will look at common biblical themes such as the creation of the world, the creation of men and women, the purpose of men and women in the world, as well as various stories relating to humankind, and see how these themes/stories are treated similarly and differently in various ancient Mediterranean and Near Eastern cultures by examining connections with the myths and literatures of ancient Mesopotamia and Greece, as well as Canaan. Biblical material will include the stories of Adam and Eve, Noah, Jephtah's daughter, and David and Jonathan.
Men, Women and Gods: Common Themes in Biblical and Ancient Mediterranean Texts: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 1998
The patriarchal age through the Hellenistic period.
History of Ancient Israel: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Prior to 2007
The patriarchal age through the Hellenistic period.
History of Ancient Israel: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2004, Fall 2002, Spring 1998
The teachings of ancient Israel's priests, prophets and sages on various universal problems.
Aspects of Biblical Religion: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2008
A survey of the poetics and genres of poetry in the Hebrew Bible, focusing on close reading of selected texts. Theoretical issues will include the dynamics of parallelism, metaphor, intertextuality, agency, and gender. Historical issues will include the ancient Near Eastern literary genres and the political and ritual dynamics of the biblical poems. Throughout the course, we will also be reading selected modern poems that respond to biblical poetry. Primary texts will be largely drawn from the books of Psalms, Proverbs, Job, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs, and the prophets. All texts will be read in translation.
Biblical Poetry: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2007, Spring 2006, Spring 2004
This class will examine the emergence and development of classical Judaism, its piety, institutions, thought, and literature.
Judaism in Late Antiquity: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019
A course on trends in Jewish religious, cultural, and social life. The course will study innovative and conservative aspects of thought, ritual, and belief in relation to contemporary life and traditional Jewish values in at least one country other than the United States.
Topics in History and Cultures of Israel: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2019, Spring 2018
Our understanding of the Hebrew Bible has been transformed in recent years due to insights from literary criticism, anthropology, archaeology, and historiography. This course explores the impact of these innovations and provides a multilayered introduction to the writings of the Hebrew Bible, focused on the mingling of memory, religion, and the literary imagination.
Literature and History in the Hebrew Bible: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2006, Spring 2002
A critical examination of the form and content of history-like narratives of the Hebrew Bible in the light of concepts of history and historiographic practices in the ancient Near East and in contemporary historical studies. Selective focus on one or more books in Genesis through Kings, Chronicles, and Ezra-Nehemiah.
History and Historiography in the Hebrew Bible: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 1995
An analysis of modern Jewish movements and ideas. Topics include Spinoza, Hasidism, the Enlightenment, Jewish religious movements in America, Zionism, Buber, Rosensweig, Kaplan, Heschel.
Modern and Contemporary Jewish Thought: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2004, Spring 2003, Spring 2000
An investigation of concepts of the hero/heroine in the literature of ancient Mesopotamia, Canaan, and Israel. The importance of heroic epic in defining and exploring morality, the self, and the cosmos will be a guiding concern. Texts include the epics of Gilgamesh and Aqhat, the Hebrew Bible, and the New Testament. All texts are read in translation.
The Hero in the Bible and the Ancient Near East: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2013, Spring 2010, Spring 2005
Trends and genres in modern Jewish literatures--translated from Hebrew and Yiddish, with selected texts translated from other Jewish languages like Ladino and Judeo-Arabic. Focus will be on developments in Jewish literary traditions since the enlightenment in the context of tensions between occidental and oriental formations of Jewish culture.
Modern Jewish Literatures: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Spring 2015
Selected topics from Islamic intellectual history.
Topics in Islamic Thought and Institutions: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Prior to 2007
A survey of leading Muslim thinkers and movements of the past two centuries.
Modern and Contemporary Islamic Thought: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2007, Fall 2001, Fall 1997
The beliefs, traditions, and practices of the Shi'ite school of Islam.
Shi'ite Islam: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2008, Fall 2004, Fall 2000
A general survey of the religious history of Iran in the Islamic period, covering the rise and development of religious institutions, the elaboration of the religious sciences, Sufism, and sectarian movements.
Islam in Iran: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2009, Spring 2005, Spring 2001
A general survey of the religious history of Iran in the Islamic period, covering the rise and development of religious institutions, the elaboration of the religious sciences, Sufism, and sectarian movements.
Islam in Iran: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2020, Fall 2016, Fall 2015
A general presentation of Sufism that, while not aiming at exhaustiveness, will seek to acquaint students with the place and function of Sufism in Islam; the main outlines of its history; doctrinal and ritual features; the relationship between Sufism and literature, especially poetry; the principal Sufi orders; leading figures in the elaboration of Sufism as a distinct mode of Islamic practice; and the great diversity of Sufism as reflected in its geographic spread throughout the Muslim world.
Sufism: The Mysticism of Islam: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Summer 2020 Second 6 Week Session, Fall 2019, Summer 2016 Second 6 Week Session
This course aims at introducing students to some of the most important features of the Islamic religious tradition. The main subjects of discussion include life of Muhammad, the Quran, Tradition, Law, Sufism, Theology, Philosophy, and Politics. The course will cover both medieval and modern Islam and will touch upon all major sects. In reference to the modern period, particular emphasis will fall on the relationship of medieval and modern interpretations and on the emergence of “political” and “liberal” Islam with reference to the history of the modern Middle East. Students will also be exposed to important theories and methods in the academic study of the discipline.
Islam: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Summer 2018 Second 6 Week Session, Fall 2017, Summer 2017 Second 6 Week Session
A comprehensive and detailed introduction to the sources, doctrines, practices, and institutions of Islam, together with their historical development and elaboration in a select number of ethnic and geographic environments and an overview of Islam in the world today.
Islam: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2017, Spring 2014, Spring 2013
A comprehensive and detailed introduction to the sources, doctrines, practices, and institutions of Islam, together with their historical development and elaboration in a select number of ethnic and geographic environments and an overview of Islam in the world today.
Islam: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2018, Spring 2006, Spring 2004
A survey of Islamic civilization in the Middle East during the medieval period. Topics include the emergence of Islam in Arabia and the role of the Prophet Muhammad; the rapid rise of an Islamic empire and its effects on the societies it governed; the creation of an Islamic civilization and the religious, political, and intellectual debates it engendered; contact with Europe and Asia through trade, Crusades, and nomadic conquest; the contributions of non-Muslims, women, slaves.
The Rise of Islamic Civilization: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2020
The course provides a chronological and thematic approach using biographies and texts to trace the emergence of the modern Middle East from the late 17th to the early 20th century culminating in the dissolution of the Ottoman dynasty and the advent of the nation-state structure. The course contextualizes the region’s social history, culture, religious, and social stratification, colonization, and Orientalism as a pathway toward understanding the forces that shaped the modern Middle East.
Emergence of the Modern Middle East: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 1998, Fall 1997, Fall 1996
No knowledge of Arabic is required. Survey of Arabic literature from its origins in pre-Islamic poetry through its historical development during the Umayyad, and Abbasid periods.
Arabic Literature in Translation: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2020, Spring 2019, Spring 2018
No knowledge of Arabic is required. Survey of Arabic literature in its development from the post-Abbasid period to the present.
Arabic Literature in Translation: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2020, Spring 2003, Spring 1997
This course focuses on poetry, short stories, novels, and the history of Middle Eastern women writers. The course will feature writings from women of diverse social and religious backgrounds and their distinct role in shaping the cultural history of Arabic poetry and literature. Texts may range from the pre-Islamic to the Medieval period as well as contemporary writings in both print and digital. Students will examine various literary methods developed over time by women writers seeking to defend and assert their rights for independence, education, and self-fulfillment. Examining their narratives from both historical and fictional sources will allow us to reflect on contemporary concerns regarding freedom, human rights, and equality.
Middle Eastern Women Writers: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2018, Fall 2002, Fall 2001
This course is organized around two broad but inter-related issues: the quest for identity and the representation of the "other" in modern Arabic literature. Central to both concerns is the treatment of colonialism, nationalism, and gender in modern Arabic literature and Arab culture in general.
Cultural Encounters in Modern Arabic Literature: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2018
This course focuses on the cultural history of Islamic Spain (Al-Andalus) from the Muslim conquest of 711 until the expulsion of Moriscos in 1609. Topics covered include the history, literature, architecture, arts, and music of Al-Andalus. The major aim is for students to develop an understanding of and a sensibility to the history, politics, and cultures of Al-Andalus as well as its social and cultural relevance to contemporary audiences.
Synagogues, Cathedrals, and Mosques: The Rise and Fall of Islamic Spain: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Prior to 2007
The dynamics of identity in contemporary Israeli and Palestinian fiction. Since in both literary traditions the quest for identity invariably involves an encounter with the cultural "other," the examination of this phenomenon within a single context can be revealing. We will approach the subject through lectures, discussion, and the viewing of video and film dramatizations of Arabic and Hebrew works that deal with identity, and make use of the class location to significantly enhance learning by visiting Arabic and Hebrew theaters and literary establishments and by meeting and interacting with Israeli and Palestinian writers, critics, and scholars. English is the language of instruction, and the required readings of novels, novellas, short stories, and works of literary and cultural criticism are in English translation. A midterm, final examination, and two short analytical papers are required.
Narratives of Identity in Israeli and Palestinian Fiction: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2020, Spring 2015, Spring 2010
After studying the tales themselves and examining their structure and how they fit into the genre of folk literature, we will investigate how the was transmitted, translated, and received in Europe, as a window on 19th-century gender and racial attitudes, especially Western views of the "oriental" other. How the was creatively manipulated by Western writers will be studied, as will the influence of these tales on modern Arabic literature itself. Several examples of how the have been represented in Western films will be considered. All works will be read in English translation.
Wonder and the Fantastic: The Thousand and One Nights in World Literary Imagination: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2020, Spring 2019
The Middle East, Iran, and North Africa are home to a great number of languages and dialects, including many varieties of Arabic, as well as Persian, Kurdish, Hebrew, Aramaic, Berber and more. This course provides an introduction to the current status of these languages, their social settings, and relevant parts of their histories. Students will acquire a basic foundation in sociolinguistics and linguistic anthropology as we explore how these languages change, struggle, and thrive. Knowledge of a language from the region (e.g. Arabic or Persian) will be helpful; no background in linguistics is required.
Sociolinguistics of the Greater Middle East: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2020
The course focuses on the impacts of migration and displacement of people from postcolonial Middle East region and the U.S. legal, political, social, and religious discourse on cross-cultural and ethical issues which arise in immigration practice while placing the phenomena within a global and transnational context. Three separate groups in the US will be examined; Middle Eastern immigrants, El Salvadoran diaspora, and rightwing white communities. The course seeks to draw connections between Middle Eastern migration and diaspora in the colonial and postcolonial periods leading to the modern period of restrictive immigration policies, building of walls, targeting Arab and Muslim immigrants as well as all immigrants from the Global South.
Middle East: Post-Colonialism, Migration, and Diaspora: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2020, Fall 2019, Fall 2018
Principally devoted to Zoroastrianism and Manicheanism but with some attention to Indo-Iranian origins, and relevance of Iranian religion for the history of Hellenistic Gnosticism, Judaism, and Islam.
Religions of Ancient Iran: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2020, Fall 2019
An introduction to the visual and material cultures of the Persianate world. Persian art has one of the richest artistic heritages in world history and includes a wide range of artistic development in architecture, sculpture, painting, weaving, pottery, calligraphy, and metalwork. This course will explore the arts in terms of their larger social, political, and cultural context in history. In addition to the Iranian plateau, the course may also cover other regions that are part of the Iranian cultural domain, which stretches from India, Afghanistan, Central Asia to Egypt, and the Mediterranean.
Topics in Persian Art and Culture: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2015, Fall 2012, Fall 2010
These courses offer a comprehensive introduction to the main currents in Persian literature from the 10th century to the contemporary period. They introduce students to various genres, period styles, and crucial formal and thematic elements necessary to the understanding of Persian literature. While 162A deals with classical Persian literature, 162B deals with Persian literature since the advent of modernity in Persian-speaking lands, namely the 19th century. Both courses emphasize the impact of social factors, political events, and intellectual currents on Persian literary production. The course is taught in English. Knowledge of Persian is desirable but not required.
History of Persian Literature: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2017, Spring 2011, Spring 2009
These courses offer a comprehensive introduction to the main currents in Persian literature from the 10th century to the contemporary period. They introduce students to various genres, period styles, and crucial formal and thematic elements necessary to the understanding of Persian literature. While 162A deals with classical Persian literature, 162B deals with Persian literature since the advent of modernity in Persian-speaking lands, namely the 19th century. Both courses emphasize the impact of social factors, political events, and intellectual currents on Persian literary production. The course is taught in English. Knowledge of Persian is desirable but not required.
History of Persian Literature: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2020, Summer 2018 First 6 Week Session, Spring 2017
This course introduces students to major themes in modern Iranian literature and cinema. Short story readings and discussions provide an analytical framework for the screening of films covering diverse topics of significance in Iran today. All films have English subtitles; lectures and readings are in English. No prior knowledge of Iranian history or literature is required.
Film and Fiction of Iran: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2015
The course introduces students to Islamic history and challenges of Islamic historiography from the rise of Islam (ca.600 CE) to the coming of the Seljuks (1050CE). Students will gain an understanding of the religious, social, and political institutions of Islam in their historical contexts. Throughout the course, they will be exposed to various primary and secondary sources that help them develop a sense of how the historical narrative was produced.
Islamic History and Historiography (600-1050): Read More [+]

Terms offered: Prior to 2007
A study of Turkish literature in translation, drawing on texts from the 8th to the 20th century. Readings will be chosen to illustrate the development within specific genres: lyric poetry, drama, folktale, etc.
Turkish Literature in Translation: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Prior to 2007
A study of Turkish literature in translation, drawing on texts from the 8th to the 20th century. Readings will be chosen to illustrate the development within specific genres: lyric poetry, drama, folktale, etc.
Turkish Literature in Translation: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 1998, Spring 1996
A survey of the main themes in the cultural, ethnic, and linguistic history of Central Asia and adjacent regions, principally from the rise of Islam down to the present. The first half of the course will deal with the Iranian element in Central Asia, and particularly with the Tajiks. The second half will be devoted to the Turks, including their history and expansion, not only in Central Asia but also in Anatolia and South East Europe.
Topics in the History of Central Asia and the Turks: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2004
A survey of the main themes in the cultural, ethnic, and linguistic history of Central Asia and adjacent regions, principally from the rise of Islam down to the present. The first half of the course will deal with the Iranian element in Central Asia, and particularly with the Tajiks. The second half will be devoted to the Turks, including their history and expansion, not only in Central Asia but also in Anatolia and South East Europe.
Topics in the History of Central Asia and the Turks: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 1999
This course examines the social and religious lives of women and men through the lens of the law. A major concern is the relationship between law and culture, namely, the ways in which the law reflected ideals and tensions ranging from ideological competition between states to the problems of ordinary townspeople and peasants. In analyzing actual court cases, we will ask how individuals participated in the life of the court, and how they used the court to articulate their own self-interest and sense of moral worth. Readings will be in English. Students wishing to work with sources in the original Ottoman Turkish should also enroll in Turkish 104 (1 unit).
Law and Society in the Early Modern Middle East: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2018, Spring 2012, Fall 2008
This course will discuss Afghanistan from ancient times to the present, including the emergence of Afghanistan as a modern nation-state and its geo-strategic importance. The Soviet invasion and aftermath will be emphasized, along with issues of state and society, ethnic diversity and tribal structure, challenges of modernization, and nationalism and political identity. The role of religion and mystical orders and the role of art, music, and literature will also be discussed.
History and Culture of Afghanistan: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2020, Spring 2019, Spring 2018
The course introduces students to Quran and to methods of its interpretation, as adopted in the exegetical (tafsir) literature. In addition to being exposed to secondary academic literature on the Quran and its exegesis, students will be offered a high dose of primary exegetical texts in translation. Passages from a number of periods and denominations will be selected, so that students may develop an appreciation of the interpretive range of a constantly-evolving tradition.
The Quran and Its Interpretation: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2018, Spring 2016
This course will explore magic as an experimental science within the learned traditions of civilizations that we consider as fundamental for a modern Western identity: from ancient Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece and Rome to the medieval and early modern Middle East, Byzantium, and Europe. The primary sources used for this exploration will be texts on demons, magic, divination, and the sophisticated philosophical background to such beliefs. In addition, archeological remains pertinent to these practices such as talismans, amulets, and other magical objects will be discussed.
Magic, Religion, and Science: The Ancient and Medieval Worlds: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2020, Spring 2020, Spring 2019
Topics explore themes and problems in the various fields of Near Eastern studies. They often reflect the research interests of the instructor and supplement regular curricular offerings. Specific descriptions of current offerings in this series are available through the department.
Special Topics in Fields of Near Eastern Studies: Ancient Near Eastern Studies: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Spring 2016
Topics explore themes and problems in the various fields of Near Eastern studies. They often reflect the research interests of the instructor and supplement regular curricular offerings. Specific descriptions of current offerings in this series are available through the department.
Special Topics in Fields of Near Eastern Studies: Egyptian Studies: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Fall 2015
Topics explore themes and problems in the various fields of Near Eastern studies. They often reflect the research interests of the instructor and supplement regular curricular offerings. Specific descriptions of current offerings in this series are available through the department.
Special Topics in Fields of Near Eastern Studies: Jewish Studies: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2014, Summer 2009 First 6 Week Session, Spring 2009
Topics explore themes and problems in the various fields of Near Eastern studies. They often reflect the research interests of the instructor and supplement regular curricular offerings. Specific descriptions of current offerings in this series are available through the department.
Special Topics in Fields of Near Eastern Studies: Islamic Studies: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2020, Fall 2019, Fall 2018
Topics explore themes and problems in the various fields of Near Eastern studies. They often reflect the research interests of the instructor and supplement regular curricular offerings. Specific descriptions of current offerings in this series are available through the department.
Special Topics in Fields of Near Eastern Studies: Arabic: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2019, Spring 2017, Fall 2013
Topics explore themes and problems in the various fields of Near Eastern studies. They often reflect the research interests of the instructor and supplement regular curricular offerings. Specific descriptions of current offerings in this series are available through the department.
Special Topics in Fields of Near Eastern Studies: Hebrew: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2019, Fall 2018, Spring 2009
Topics explore themes and problems in the various fields of Near Eastern studies. They often reflect the research interests of the instructor and supplement regular curricular offerings. Specific descriptions of current offerings in this series are available through the department.
Special Topics in Fields of Near Eastern Studies: Iranian/Persian: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2014, Spring 2009, Fall 2007
This series is designed to acquaint upper division students with advanced research strategies in specific areas of Near Eastern Studies. The course may reflect current research and interests of the instructors and will introduce students to specialized problems in the field. Two units for presentation; four units for paper and presentation.
Undergrad Seminar: Problems and Research in Near Eastern Studies: Ancient Near Eastern Studies: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2015, Spring 2014, Spring 2013
This series is designed to acquaint upper division students with advanced research strategies in specific areas of Near Eastern Studies. The course may reflect current research and interests of the instructors and will introduce students to specialized problems in the field. Two units for presentation; four units for paper and presentation.
Undergrad Seminar: Problems and Research in Near Eastern Studies: Egyptian Studies: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Prior to 2007
This series is designed to acquaint upper division students with advanced research strategies in specific areas of Near Eastern Studies. The course may reflect current research and interests of the instructors and will introduce students to specialized problems in the field. Two units for presentation; four units for paper and presentation.
Undergrad Seminar: Problems and Research in Near Eastern Studies: Jewish Studies: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Prior to 2007
This series is designed to acquaint upper division students with advanced research strategies in specific areas of Near Eastern Studies. The course may reflect current research and interests of the instructors and will introduce students to specialized problems in the field. Two units for presentation; four units for paper and presentation.
Undergrad Seminar: Problems and Research in Near Eastern Studies: Islamic Studies: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2003
This series is designed to acquaint upper division students with advanced research strategies in specific areas of Near Eastern Studies. The course may reflect current research and interests of the instructors and will introduce students to specialized problems in the field. Two units for presentation; four units for paper and presentation.
Undergrad Seminar: Problems and Research in Near Eastern Studies: Arabic: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Prior to 2007
This series is designed to acquaint upper division students with advanced research strategies in specific areas of Near Eastern Studies. The course may reflect current research and interests of the instructors and will introduce students to specialized problems in the field. Two units for presentation; four units for paper and presentation.
Undergrad Seminar: Problems and Research in Near Eastern Studies: Cuneiform: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Prior to 2007
This series is designed to acquaint upper division students with advanced research strategies in specific areas of Near Eastern Studies. The course may reflect current research and interests of the instructors and will introduce students to specialized problems in the field. Two units for presentation; four units for paper and presentation.
Undergrad Seminar: Problems and Research in Near Eastern Studies: Egyptian: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Prior to 2007
This series is designed to acquaint upper division students with advanced research strategies in specific areas of Near Eastern Studies. The course may reflect current research and interests of the instructors and will introduce students to specialized problems in the field. Two units for presentation; four units for paper and presentation.
Undergrad Seminar: Problems and Research in Near Eastern Studies: Hebrew: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2005
This series is designed to acquaint upper division students with advanced research strategies in specific areas of Near Eastern Studies. The course may reflect current research and interests of the instructors and will introduce students to specialized problems in the field. Two units for presentation; four units for paper and presentation.
Undergrad Seminar: Problems and Research in Near Eastern Studies: Iranian/Persian: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Prior to 2007
This series is designed to acquaint upper division students with advanced research strategies in specific areas of Near Eastern Studies. The course may reflect current research and interests of the instructors and will introduce students to specialized problems in the field. Two units for presentation; four units for paper and presentation.
Undergrad Seminar: Problems and Research in Near Eastern Studies: Semitics: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Prior to 2007
This series is designed to acquaint upper division students with advanced research strategies in specific areas of Near Eastern Studies. The course may reflect current research and interests of the instructors and will introduce students to specialized problems in the field. Two units for presentation; four units for paper and presentation.
Undergrad Seminar: Problems and Research in Near Eastern Studies: Turkish: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Prior to 2007
This course teaches archaeological field methods through hands-on instruction. Students work with the project staff and receive exposure to techniques like excavation, survey, illustration, photography, and artifact processing. Students also learn local archaeology and history through weekly lectures and field trips.
Near Eastern Archaeological Field School: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2019, Spring 2017, Spring 2016
Directed study centered upon preparation of an honors thesis.
Senior Honors: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2016, Spring 2010, Fall 2006
Instruction in areas not covered by regularly scheduled courses: Phoenician, Cypriote, Syrian Archaeology.
Directed Group Study for Upper Division Students: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Summer 2020 First 6 Week Session, Spring 2020, Fall 2019
Enrollment is restricted by regulations shown in the
Supervised Independent Study and Research: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2016, Fall 2015, Fall 2014
Introduction to the academic profession of Near Eastern studies. This course will survey the various disciplines and subfields contained under this rubric, including their developmental histories, methodologies, and primary and secondary data sources. Enrollment in this course is required of all graduate students during their first year of study.
Graduate Proseminar: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2010
An introduction to the diversity of fields and disciplines that comprise ancient Egyptian and Near Eastern studies, including current and traditional methods and trends. Designed for candidates for higher degrees in Near Eastern Studies and related programs.
Fields, Methods and Current Trends in Ancient Egyptian and Near Eastern Studies: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2020, Fall 2013
This seminar is meant for graduate students who wish to use cuneiform texts (in original or in translation) for their research. The most general question that we will ask is: how does a text produce meaningful information? The seminar is organized around three tasks: evaluation of secondary literature, methodological reflection on the use of texts, and using cuneiform texts in a scholarly paper.
Using Cuneiform Texts in Research: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2012
Seminar on critical aspects of Near Eastern art requiring intensive study and presentation of a research paper. Topics vary from semester to semester.
Seminar in Near Eastern Art: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Fall 2014, Fall 2013
Seminar on critical aspects of Near Eastern archaeology requiring intensive study and presentation of a reseach paper and oral report. Topics vary from semester to semester.
Seminar in Near Eastern Archaeology: Read More [+]

Terms offered: Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Fall 2015
Students may enroll in more than one section of 290, but the total number of units of Special Study in any one semester may not exceed 12.
Special Studies: Near Eastern Studies: Read More [+]