HIS 205LEC—History of the Middle East

History of the Middle East offers an in-depth exploration of the sociopolitical, religious, and cultural evolution of the Middle East, a region that has shaped global history for millennia. This course delves into the unifying elements of the region, including Islam, literature, and the arts, while also highlighting the unique histories, politics, and diversity that define its many cultures. Through the analysis of key foundational texts, leading scholarship, and diverse historical sources, students will study major milestones such as the rise of Islam in the seventh century, advancements in science, the age of industrialization and colonialism, and the contemporary geopolitical challenges the region faces today. This course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the Middle East’s rich history and its profound impact on modern global dynamics.