*Near Eastern Civilizations 97r. Group Tutorial—Sophomore Year
Catalog Number: 0167
Jay M. Harris and members of the Department
Half course (spring term). M., 2–4. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8
An introduction to the cultures and literatures of the Near East in ancient, classical, and modern times, emphasizing major themes and problems that cut across individual cultures and historical periods.
*Near Eastern Civilizations 98r. Tutorial — Junior Year
Catalog Number: 2612
Jay M. Harris and members of the Department
Half course (fall term). M., 2–4.
Note: Designed for juniors concentrating in Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations.
*Near Eastern Civilizations 99r. Tutorial — Senior Year
Catalog Number: 6623
Peter Machinist and members of the Department
Full course. Hours to be arranged.
Note: Designed for seniors concentrating in Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations.
Near Eastern Civilizations 200b. Middle Eastern Studies Research Project: Seminar
Catalog Number: 9274
Susan M. Kahn
Half course (spring term). M., 3–5. EXAM GROUP: 8, 9
Interdisciplinary seminar for AM thesis development. Students are expected to begin the course with a working draft of AM thesis to be revised and critiqued throughout the semester.
Note: Required for students pursuing the AM in Middle Eastern Studies. Primarily for students in the final term in the AM in Middle Eastern Studies program, although open to students in related fields.
*Near Eastern Civilizations 390. Direction of Doctoral Dissertations
Catalog Number: 3041
Ali S. Asani 7739, Shaye J.D. Cohen 4180, William A. Graham, Jr. 4156, William E. Granara 1054, Jo Ann Hackett 2389, Paul D. Hanson (Divinity School) 1394 (on leave fall term), Jay M. Harris 2266, Wolfhart P. Heinrichs 4988, John Huehnergard 7697, Jon D. Levenson (Divinity School) 2264, Peter Machinist 2812, James R. Russell 3411, Bernard Septimus 7160, P. Oktor Skjaervo 2869, Lawrence E. Stager 1468, Piotr Steinkeller 7337, Wheeler M. Thackston, Jr. 4004 (fall term only), and Ruth R. Wisse 3177
Ancient Near East 101. Introduction to Mesopotamian Archaeology
Catalog Number: 1245
James A. Armstrong
Half course (spring term). M., W., 1–2:30. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
Surveys the archaeology of ancient Mesopotamia (geographically defined as the territory of modern Iraq plus immediately adjacent areas) from the Neolithic Period until the conquest of Alexander the Great. While theoretical issues and approaches will not be neglected, the emphasis in this class is on the archaeological data that are used in reconstructions of Mesopotamia’s history and its ancient social systems.
Ancient Near East 102. Introduction to Mesopotamian Religion
Catalog Number: 0486
Piotr Steinkeller
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., at 11. EXAM GROUP: 13
A survey of the sources, data, and principal concerns. A selection of texts are read in translation.
Note: Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 3661.
[Ancient Near East 105. History of the Ancient Near East: The Levant (up to Alexander the Great)]
Catalog Number: 0711
Lawrence E. Stager
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., at 12. EXAM GROUP: 14
The civilization and cultural traditions of the peoples of Syria-Palestine from the third millennium to the time of Alexander the Great.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09.
Ancient Near East 107. History and Historiography in the Ancient Near East
Catalog Number: 0665
Peter Machinist
Half course (fall term). W., 3–5. EXAM GROUP: 8, 9
Conceptions of history and the practice of historical writing in the ancient Near East. Discussions based on a comparative study of texts from a variety of cultural traditions, such as the Hittites, Mesopotamia, ancient Israel/ Hebrew Bible, and Second Temple Judaism, together with classical Greece.
Note: Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 1427.
[Ancient Near East 109r. History and Archaeology of the Ancient Near East]
Catalog Number: 1822
Lawrence E. Stager and Peter Machinist
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Topic for 2009-10: To be announced.
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 1822.
[Ancient Near East 111. Law in the World of the Bible]
Catalog Number: 6397
Peter Machinist
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
An examination of what law was and how it operated in ancient Israel through its primary expression in the Hebrew Bible. Attention to the wider contexts of law in the ancient Near East, especially Mesopotamia, in which Biblical law originated, and to the legacy of Biblical law in the subsequent traditions of early Judaism.
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10.
[Ancient Near East 115. Archaeology of the Levant (Syria-Palestine)]
Catalog Number: 2813
Lawrence E. Stager and Ofer Bar-Yosef
Half course (fall term). F., 1–3. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
A chronological survey of the archaeology of the Levant in which material culture provides a window on human evolution, society, economy, and religion from the Lower Palaeolithic to Hellenistic times. Special topics include the earliest colonization of Homo erectus, the origin of modern humans, the emergence of farming and pastoral societies, the formation and dissolution of Bronze Age city-states, and the rise and fall of Iron Age kingdoms such as Israel, Moab, and Edom.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09. Includes a lab section.
Ancient Near East 117. Biblical Archaeology
Catalog Number: 1371
Lawrence E. Stager
Half course (fall term). F., 1–3. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
Archaeology and texts, such as the Bible, used to reconstruct aspects of social, economic, and religious life (from courtier to commoner) in ancient Israel during the Iron Age.
Note: Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 1422. Includes a lab section.
Ancient Near East 118. Syro-Palestinian Pottery
Catalog Number: 1368
Lawrence E. Stager
Half course (fall term). F., 3–5. EXAM GROUP: 8, 9
A basic introduction to the pottery sequence of Palestine and Syria from Neolithic through Roman times, with emphasis on typological attributes having chronological significance. Conducted in the Harvard Semitic Museum laboratory.
Note: Includes a lab section.
Ancient Near East 120. Introduction to the Hebrew Scriptures
Catalog Number: 6544
Michael D. Coogan
Half course (fall term). F., 9–11 and additional hour weekly for a section meeting. EXAM GROUP: 2, 3
A survey of the Hebrew Scriptures as viewed in their historical and cultural setting in the ancient Near East and as interpreted by modern scholarship, with attention to this literature as an expression of the religious thought of Israel and one of the formative influences on Western civilization.
Note: Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 1101.
[Ancient Near East 122. Biblical Interpretation: Seminar]
Catalog Number: 4289 Enrollment: Limited to 15.
Paul D. Hanson (Divinity School)
Half course (spring term). Tu., 1–3. EXAM GROUP: 15, 16
The biblical Book of Isaiah will be studied with attention to its historical setting, its major theological themes, its literary qualities, and its place within the religion of ancient Israel. The class will also consider the ways in which this prophetic writing continues to influence contemporary religious and political thought and action.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 1814.
Prerequisite: Ancient Near East 120 or equivalent.
[Ancient Near East 124. Myth and Myth-Making in the Biblical and Ancient Near Eastern World]
Catalog Number: 7859
Peter Machinist
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
An exploration of the nature and function of myth in the context of the ancient Near East. The course focuses on selected mythic texts from various Near Eastern cultures and consider them in the light of general approaches to myth developed in Western scholarship. Particular attention is given to the issue of myth in the Hebrew Bible.
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 1128/3410.
[Ancient Near East 126. History of the Religion of Israel]
Catalog Number: 1672
Peter Machinist
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
The study of ancient Israelite religion and culture in comparative historical context. Topics examined include conceptions of divinity, prophecy, law, kingship, and cult. Through such topics the aim is to see how Israel related to other cultures of the ancient Near East and, thus, of what value the study of the other cultures has in understanding the character of Israelite religion itself.
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 1110.
[Ancient Near East 127. Prophecy in Ancient Israel]
Catalog Number: 6739
Peter Machinist
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged, and one additional hour to be arranged.
A study of the phenomenon and history of Israelite prophecy, as recorded in the Hebrew Bible, in the light of prophecy elsewhere in the ancient Near East and in other cultures. Pertinent sociological, literary, and religious issues explored.
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 1125.
Ancient Near East 128. Jewish Apocalypticism
Catalog Number: 8249
Paul D. Hanson (Divinity School)
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 8:30–10. EXAM GROUP: 10, 11
A study of Jewish apocalyptic movements from their roots in late biblical prophesy to their flowering in Hellenistic and Roman times. Attention will be paid to the biblical and extra-biblical traditions incorporated in these texts and woven into messages addressing crises such as persecution and forced assimilation. The manner in which books like Daniel and Revelation are used by contemporary apocalyptic movements will be assessed.
Note: All texts read in English translation. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 1460.
Prerequisite: Ancient Near East 120 or the equivalent.
Ancient Near East 131. Readings in the Septuagint
Catalog Number: 3661
Richard J. Saley
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., at 12. EXAM GROUP: 14
This course aims to increase facility with Septuagint Greek by reading representative prose portions of the Septuagint and studying the peculiarities of the grammar inductively. The fundamentals of Koine Greek will be reviewed as necessary.
Note: Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 4215.
Prerequisite: One year of Greek.
[Ancient Near East 132. Ancient Jewish Wisdom Literature]
Catalog Number: 9522
Jon D. Levenson (Divinity School)
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
A close critical reading and interpretation of works thought to derive from the Wisdom tradition of ancient Israel, through the Second Temple period. The workings of the world and the ways of God as they appear in works such as Proverbs, Job, Qohelet, Ben Sira, some Psalms, the Wisdom of Solomon, Fourth Maccabees, and Pseudo-Phocylides as well as narratives such as the Joseph story, Esther, and Daniel. Egyptian and Mesopotamian antecedents and parallels briefly considered. Emphasis on matters of worldview and literary form.
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 1416.
Prerequisite: Ancient Near East 120 or an equivalent introduction to the historical-critical study of the Hebrew Bible.
[Ancient Near East 133. Old Testament Theology] - (New Course)
Catalog Number: 1265
Jay M. Harris
Half course (spring term). M., W., F., at 9. EXAM GROUP: 2
This course explores the primary structures of theological beliefs reflected in the Old Testament and encourage disciplined reflection on how those structures and beliefs may instruct, warn, correct, or be corrected by contemporary Christian faith.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 1132.
[Ancient Near East 134. Genesis: Narrative Artistry and Theological Meanings]
Catalog Number: 3291
Jon D. Levenson (Divinity School)
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
A close critical reading in English of the book of Genesis with an eye both to the storytellers’ techniques and to the moral and theological dimensions of the text. Emphasis will be given to literary and religious rather than historical and editorial issues.
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 1417.
Prerequisite: Ancient Near East 120 or an equivalent introduction to the historical-critical study of the Hebrew Bible.
[Ancient Near East 135. Biblical Theology: Hebrew Bible]
Catalog Number: 4476
Paul D. Hanson (Divinity School)
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
The theology of the Hebrew Bible studied by explicating major biblical themes (e.g., creation, liberation, war and peace, economic justice, social reform) and then relating them to issues in the contemporary world. Attention also given to background questions such as concepts of biblical authority and hermeneutical theory.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 1150/2470.
Prerequisite: Ancient Near East 120 or equivalent.
[Ancient Near East 137. The Hebrew Prophets]
Catalog Number: 3183
Paul D. Hanson (Divinity School)
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 9–10:30. EXAM GROUP: 11, 12
A survey of the prophetic books of the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) with consideration of historical setting, location within the traditions of the Hebrew Scripture, and theological themes of each book. The relevance of the prophets for contemporary theology, ethics, economics, and politics will also be discussed, with due attention to the hermeneutical problems posed in relating an ancient scriptural classic to the modern world.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 1151.
[Ancient Near East 138. The Bible and Politics]
Catalog Number: 8073
Paul D. Hanson (Divinity School)
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 8:30–10. EXAM GROUP: 10, 11
The course will examine political models found in the Hebrew Bible; the role of biblical traditions in the development of church-state relations in the history of the US; and the possibility of a suitable political theology within the context of contemporary religion and politics.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 1465/2529.
Prerequisite: Ancient Near East 120 or the equivalent.
Ancient Near East 139. Monarch to Messiah: The Kingship of God in the Old Testament - (New Course)
Catalog Number: 9048
Jay M. Harris
Half course (fall term). M., W., F., at 9. EXAM GROUP: 2
This course traces the development of the idea of the kingship of God from Israel’s earliest period, through the rise of the human monarchy, and down to the time of full-blown messianic expectations, exploring the factors that influenced and shaped that development. Course also addresses the issue of the continuing relevance of this theological strand in contemporary Christian theological reflection.
*Ancient Near East 215r. Problems in the Archaeology of Bronze and Iron Age Levant: Seminar
Catalog Number: 2960
Lawrence E. Stager
Half course (fall term). F., 3–5. EXAM GROUP: 8, 9
Topic for 2006-07: To be announced.
Note: Conducted in the Harvard Semitic Museum Laboratory.
Ancient Near East 222. History of the Study of the Hebrew Bible: From the Renaissance to the Present: Seminar
Catalog Number: 8086
Peter Machinist
Half course (spring term). Th., 3–5. EXAM GROUP: 17, 18
Surveys Hebrew biblical scholarship since the Renaissance, focusing on particular scholars and their representative and seminal works. The central theme is the emergence of and reactions to a historical-critical understanding of the Bible.
Note: Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 1425.
Prerequisite: A background in the study of the Hebrew Bible. Also, Biblical Hebrew and at least one of the following: French, German, and Modern Hebrew.
Ancient Near East 236. Biblical Theology: Seminar
Catalog Number: 7022 Enrollment: Limited to 12.
Paul D. Hanson (Divinity School)
Half course (spring term). Tu., 1–3. EXAM GROUP: 15, 16
An examination of resources within the Bible for the construction of contemporary political theology.
Note: Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 1801/2471.
Prerequisite: Introductory level knowledge of the Bible and/or political science.
*Ancient Near East 320. Reading and Research in Ancient Mesopotamian Civilization
Catalog Number: 5678
John Huehnergard 7697, Peter Machinist 2812, and Piotr Steinkeller 7337
*Ancient Near East 330. Reading and Research in Biblical Studies
Catalog Number: 1524
J. F. Coakley 3409, Jo Ann Hackett 2389, Paul D. Hanson (Divinity School) 1394 (on leave fall term), Jon D. Levenson (Divinity School) 2264, Peter Machinist 2812, and Lawrence E. Stager 1468
Jewish Studies 111. Modern Jewish Thought
Catalog Number: 5461
Jay M. Harris
Half course (spring term). M., 2–4. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8
A study of significant Jewish thinkers in the modern period and their reflections on the past and present meaning of Judaism. All thinkers studied against the background of premodern Jewish thought and the challenges posed by modern Western philosophical systems.
Note: Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 3682.
Jewish Studies 112. The Poet as Translator - (New Course)
Catalog Number: 3400
Avi Matalon
Half course (spring term). Th., 2:30–4. EXAM GROUP: 16, 17
Examines the phenomenon of accomplished poets who are also translators. Poetry demands original and direct access to language, while translation is thought of in terms of fidelity to an existing text. How do poets negotiate these seemingly contradictory expectations? Draws from various literary traditions, with special emphasis on Jewish literature.
Jewish Studies 114. History versus Literature in Modern Jewish Texts
Catalog Number: 3527
Avi Matalon
Half course (fall term). M., 2–4. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8
Examines the treatment of history in modern Jewish and Israeli literature.
Jewish Studies 135. Jewish-Arab Encounters: the Classical Age - (New Course)
Catalog Number: 3448
Bernard Septimus
Half course (fall term). M., 1–3. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
An examination of Jewish-Arab cultural exchange against its socio-political backdrop, from the pre-Islamic period through the thirteenth century. Topics include: perceptions of the other; social relations; polemics; conversions; interchange in the realms of religion, law, literature, philosophy and mysticism; the end of the classical age. These topics will be explored through primary sources in translation.
Jewish Studies 140. Deconstruction and Questions of Jewish Identity: Seminar
Catalog Number: 2198
Avi Matalon
Half course (fall term). W., 3–5. EXAM GROUP: 8, 9
Examines the work of philosopher Jacques Derrida (1930–2004) and the method of deconstruction. Focuses on Derrida’s writings that touch on questions of identity, as developed in his prolific career.
[Jewish Studies 141. Jewish Society and Culture in Early Modern Europe]
Catalog Number: 8620
Rachel L. Greenblatt
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., at 10. EXAM GROUP: 12
The advent of print, the Protestant challenge to the Roman Catholic church, increasing use of the written vernacular, a blossoming of interest in different and exotic peoples-these and additional developments transformed Europe in the period from about 1500 to 1750. This course uses written and graphic primary sources to examine the place of these developments in Jewish society and culture, in the context of the history and historiography of Christian Europe.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09.
[Jewish Studies 142. Gender Roles and the Role of Gender: Jewish Society in Medieval and Early Modern Europe]
Catalog Number: 9838
Rachel L. Greenblatt
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., at 10. EXAM GROUP: 12
Examines the ideal image of the Jewish woman and the Jewish man (in Jewish eyes) alongside the reality of women’s and men’s lives in European Jewish society, beginning in the Middle Ages and continuing up to approximately the late eighteenth century, when Jewish women hosted salons in Old Regime Berlin. Topics to be considered include synagogue participation and other forms of prayer, business practices, learning and reading, family life and life cycle rituals.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09.
Jewish Studies 143. Jews in the Modern World - (New Course)
Catalog Number: 8216
Steven J. Zipperstein (Stanford University)
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 11:30–1. EXAM GROUP: 13, 14
An examination of Jewish culture, politics, economics, and society from the late seventeenth century to the present. The course will study Jewish history in a comparative framework with primary concentration on the major areas of Jewish demographic density -- in particular, the Ottoman Empire, Eastern Europe, Russia, and eventually the US and Israel. Topics discussed will include the transmutation of "traditional" Jewish life, hasidism, the Jewish enlightenment, the Russian government and the Jews, acculturated and assimilated Jewish identity in Western and Central Europe, the origins of Reform and Orthodox Judaism, Antisemitism, Zionism, Liberalism and the Jews, Jewish life in the Soviet Union and inter-war Europe, the Holocaust, post-war European Jewry, the rise of Israel, and the Jewish life in the US.
Jewish Studies 144. History and Memory: Modes of Jewish Discourse - (New Course)
Catalog Number: 7216
Rachel L. Greenblatt
Half course (spring term). W., 1–3. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
Focus on close readings of selected pre-Enlightenment Jewish historical writings, with consideration of relevant theoretical and methodological frameworks. Readings will be available in the original Hebrew and Yiddish and in English translations.
Jewish Studies 153. Jews and Communism in Russia: 1880 to the Fall of the Soviet Union: Seminar - (New Course)
Catalog Number: 2095
Steven J. Zipperstein (Stanford University)
Half course (fall term). Th., 3–5. EXAM GROUP: 17, 18
This course explores the engagement of Jews -- as believers, victims, and, in the minds of some, as the key progenitors of Communism in Russia from its birth as a coherent ideology until the fall of the Soviet Union. Themes discussed will include: Jews and the origins of Marxism; Jews as Populists, Anarchists; Bolsheviks, and Mensheviks; Marxism and the Jewish Question; Lenin, Stalin, and Trotsky on Jews and Judaism; War, Revolution, Civil War and the Jewish Street; the Jewish intelligentsia and the Revolution; Jews in the Soviet administration; the social/economic transformation of Jewry under Communism; the Second World War, and its aftermath; post-war antisemitism, etc. Some comparative analysis on the influence of Communism on Jews elsewhere (in Europe, the US, and Palestine) will be included. The approach will be interdisciplinary with historical, sociological, political, and literary texts provided.
Note: Participation in the course is open to undergraduate seniors, as well as graduate students.
Prerequisite: There are no language requirements; supplementary reading lists for Russian and/or Yiddish readers will be provided.
[Jewish Studies 215. Does Glikl Stand Alone? Jewish Autobiographical Writing, 14th - 19th Centuries]
Catalog Number: 9047
Rachel L. Greenblatt
Half course (spring term). Tu., 2–4. EXAM GROUP: 16, 17
Weekly readings of Hebrew and early Yiddish writings about the self as they appear in a variety of literary genres, alongside recent scholarly literature on "Ego-documents" and Jewish autobiography.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09.
Prerequisite: Ability to read Hebrew texts or the permission of instructor.
[Early Iranian Civilizations 103. Manicheism]
Catalog Number: 2604
P. Oktor Skjaervo
Half course (fall term). F., 1–3. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
Introduction to and readings in Iranian Manicheism (on the basis of translated texts).
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 3580.
Early Iranian Civilizations 105. "Crow Eaters" and "Fire Worshippers": Encountering Contemporary Zoroastrians - (New Course)
Catalog Number: 0242
Yuhan Vevaina
Half course (spring term). F., 1–3, and one additional hour to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
Explore contemporary Parsi (Indian Zoroastrian) culture, literature, and religious identity to better understand their experience a self-consciously minority and diasporic community practicing one of the world’s oldest religions.
[Islamic Civilizations 123. Colonialism and After in the Maghrib ]
Catalog Number: 2664
Susan G. Miller
Half course (fall term). Th., 3–5. EXAM GROUP: 17, 18
A survey of North African history in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, focusing on the political, social and cultural transformations brought about through the encounter with the West. Colonialism and its impact, the struggle over language and cultural identity, the role of minority politics, the Algerian revolution and civil war, the role of public intellectuals and the new Maghribi historiography are some of the topics covered.
Note: Expected to be omitted in 2007–08. Expected to be given in 2008–09.
[Islamic Civilizations 145. Introduction to Islamic Philosophy and Theology]
Catalog Number: 0292
Khaled El-Rouayheb
Half course (fall term). Th., 3–5 and a weekly section to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 17, 18
An introductory survey of the development of Islamic theology and philosophy. We will examine and discuss some of the central problems that were much debated through the centuries, such as: the relationship between philosophy and faith; whether humans possess free will; how to understand apparently anthropomorphic expressions in Scripture; whether acts are good because God commands them or God commands them because they are good; and proofs for the existence of God.
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 3602.
[Islamic Civilizations 146. al-Ghazali: Theologian and Mystic] - (New Course)
Catalog Number: 9561
Khaled El-Rouayheb
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Al-Ghazali (d.1111) is generally recognized to be one of the most influential of all Muslim religious thinkers. A prominent theologian and jurist, he experienced a spiritual crisis at the height of his career, and as a consequence explored mysticism (Sufism) and worked out a powerful synthesis between respect for the externals of the Islamic religion and the mystics’ stress on the interior life. In this course, we will look in particular at his account of his spiritual crisis; his critical engagement with the Islamic Philosophers; and some of the more mystical works that he wrote toward the end of his life, including his theodicy, his meditations on the Qur’anic dictum that "God is the Light of the Heavens and the Earth", and select chapters from his
great summa "The Revival of the Religious Sciences". All readings will be in English.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09.
Prerequisite: No knowledge of Arabic required.
Islamic Civilizations 148. Fatwas and Muftis - (New Course)
Catalog Number: 4327
Rudolph Peters
Half course (spring term). M., 2–5. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8, 9
Fatwas are an important branch of Islamic legal literature. They deal with a wide range of religious and legal issues. We will read and discuss fatwas in translation and studies on fatwas in order to explore the fatwa genre and discover how fatwas can be used as sources not only for legal but also for historical and social studies. For students with sufficient language skills there will be an additional hour for reading Arabic fatwas.
Islamic Civilizations 160. The Meanings of Islam in Central Asia
Catalog Number: 8678
John S. Schoeberlein
Half course (spring term). W., 2–4. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8
Examines the changing role of Islam in Central Asia through history from a multidisciplinary perspective. Considers the diversity and multi-dimensionality of Islam as it influences social, cultural, political and religious life. Themes include: Islam and social order; Islam under Russian and Communist rule; Sufism, modernist Islam, "fundamentalism" and other forms of belief and practice; and the dynamic new role of Islam in the region following independence in 1991.
Note: Intended primarily for advanced undergraduates and graduate students; some background in Islam and/or the former Soviet Bloc desirable.
*Islamic Civilizations 350. Reading and Research in Ottoman History and Literature
Catalog Number: 4084
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[Armenian Studies 100. Armenian Epic]
Catalog Number: 2576
James R. Russell
Half course (fall term). W., 3–5. EXAM GROUP: 8, 9
Reading in translation of The Wild Men of Sasun, with analysis of native historical and mythological sources, and thematic comparison to epic poetry of the neighboring Iranians (Ossetic Narts, Persian Shah-nameh, Kurdish epic songs), Turks (Dede Korkut), and Greeks (Digenes Akrites).
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09.
Armenian Studies 105. Survey of 19th and 20th Century Armenian Poetry: From Romantics to Revolutionaries
Catalog Number: 3496
James R. Russell
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
A survey of the great innovators and visionaries: Bedros Tourian, Misak Medzarents, Yeghia Demirjibashian, Daniel Varouzhan, Siamanto, Vahan Teryan, Yeghishe Charents, and their English, Russian, and French colleagues and translators. The course spans the fateful epoch from the mid-19th century to the aftermath of the Russian Revolution.
Note: Knowledge of Armenian preferred but not required.
Akkadian 120. Intermediate Akkadian
Catalog Number: 3724
Piotr Steinkeller
Full course (indivisible). Fall: Tu., Th., at 11; Spring: Tu., Th., at 1. EXAM GROUP: Fall: 13; Spring: 15
Prerequisite: Akkadian grammar, basic vocabulary, knowledge of cuneiform script.
[Akkadian 142. Akkadian Hymns and Prayers]
Catalog Number: 6387
Andrea Seri
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Readings from the various genres of Akkadian hymns and prayers, with particular emphasis on the genre of shuilla prayers. In the course of the term, students are expected to master the style and vocabulary of these texts, as well as to learn how to reconstruct a text from several manuscripts.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09.
Prerequisite: Akkadian grammar, basic vocabulary, knowledge of cuneiform script.
Akkadian 143. Akkadian Literary Texts - (New Course)
Catalog Number: 4815
Andrea Seri
Half course (spring term). M., W., F., at 10. EXAM GROUP: 3
Readings and analysis of a variety of literary texts.
Prerequisite: Akkadian grammar, basic vocabulary, knowledge of cuneiform script
Akkadian 144. Akkadian Divination Texts
Catalog Number: 6734
Piotr Steinkeller
Half course (fall term). W., 1–4. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7, 8
Akkadian 148. Old Babylonian Letters
Catalog Number: 0975
John Huehnergard
Half course (fall term). Tu., 2–4. EXAM GROUP: 16, 17
Prerequisite: Akkadian A.
[Akkadian 152. Texts and History of Imperial Assyria]
Catalog Number: 3226
Peter Machinist
Half course (spring term). W., 3–5. EXAM GROUP: 8, 9
Readings and analysis of a variety of texts from the Neo-Assyrian period illustrating issues in Assyrian imperial history, culture, and language.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09.
Prerequisite: Akkadian grammar, basic vocabulary, knowledge of a cuneiform script.
[Akkadian 154a. Peripheral Akkadian]
Catalog Number: 2416
Piotr Steinkeller
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09.
Prerequisite: Two full courses in Akkadian.
[Akkadian 155r. Akkadian Historical Grammar and Dialectology]
Catalog Number: 0232
John Huehnergard
Half course (fall term). Tu., 2–4. EXAM GROUP: 16, 17
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09.
Prerequisite: Two full courses in Akkadian.
Akkadian 156. Neo-Babylonian Inscriptions - (New Course)
Catalog Number: 4024
Andrea Seri
Half course (fall term). M., W., F., at 10. EXAM GROUP: 3
Readings and analysis of a variety of texts from the Neo-Babylonian period.
Prerequisite: Akkadian grammar, basic vocabulary, knowledge of cuneiform script
[Sumerian 141. Sumerian Myths and Epics]
Catalog Number: 9858
Piotr Steinkeller
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09.
Sumerian 146. Sumerian Religious Literature
Catalog Number: 2605
Piotr Steinkeller
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Arabic 105r. Women and Gender in Arabian Gulf Societies - (New Course)
Catalog Number: 8623
Suaad A. Al-Mana
Half course (spring term). Th., 4–6. EXAM GROUP: 18
Readings on contemporary history, sociology and literature that treat themes dealing with women, family, and gender politics in the contemporary Arabian Gulf countries.
[Arabic 120a. Intermediate Classical Arabic I]
Catalog Number: 1106
William E. Granara and staff
Half course (fall term). M. through F., at 10. EXAM GROUP: 3, 12
A thorough review of classical Arabic grammar with emphasis on reading and writing, with some discussion in Arabic in class for vocabulary and structure reinforcement. Readings focus on medieval Arabic historiography: biographical dictionaries, chronicles, and geography/“travel” literature. Contemporary texts dealing with “classical” themes will form part of the syllabus to help students develop better reading fluency.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09. Not open to auditors. Cannot be taken pass/fail. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 4351.
Prerequisite: Arabic A or equivalent.
[Arabic 120b. Intermediate Classical Arabic II]
Catalog Number: 0597
William E. Granara and staff
Half course (spring term). M. through F., at 10. EXAM GROUP: 3, 12
Continuation of Arabic 120a.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09. Not open to auditors. Cannot be taken pass/fail. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 4352.
Prerequisite: Arabic 120a or equivalent.
Arabic 121a. Intermediate Modern Arabic I
Catalog Number: 0973
William E. Granara and staff
Half course (fall term). Sections I: M. through F., at 10; Section II & III M. through F., at 11; Section IV: M. through F., at 12. EXAM GROUP: 3, 12
A continuation of Elementary Arabic with equal emphasis on speaking, reading, oral, and aural skills. Selections from contemporary Arabic media are introduced and serve as bases for reading and conversation.
Note: Not open to auditors. Cannot be taken pass/fail. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 4361.
Prerequisite: Arabic A or equivalent.
Arabic 121b. Intermediate Modern Arabic II
Catalog Number: 0685
William E. Granara and staff
Half course (spring term). Section I: M. through F., at 10; Sections II & III: M. through F., at 11; Section IV: M. through F., at 12. EXAM GROUP: 3, 12
A continuation of Arabic 121a.
Note: Not open to auditors. Cannot be taken pass/fail. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 4362.
Prerequisite: Arabic 121a or equivalent.
Arabic 130a. Advanced Classical Arabic I
Catalog Number: 4591
Khaled El-Rouayheb
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 11:30–1. EXAM GROUP: 13, 14
Concentration on readings from classical Islamic texts, with emphasis on Qur’an, hadîth, sîra, and tafsîr literature; directed readings and textual analysis; review of classical Arabic morphology and syntax.
Note: Not open to auditors. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 4353.
Prerequisite: Arabic 120b or equivalent.
Arabic 130b. Advanced Classical Arabic II
Catalog Number: 2964
Khaled El-Rouayheb
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 11:30–1. EXAM GROUP: 13, 14
Continuation of Arabic 130a or may be taken separately with permission of the instructor. Readings from corpus of “Adab” (Belles-Lettres) literature, as well as various pieces of classical Arabic poetry.
Note: Not open to auditors. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 4354.
Prerequisite: Arabic 130a or equivalent.
Arabic 131a. Advanced Modern Arabic l
Catalog Number: 0739
Sayed Abdallah Ali Elsisi
Half course (fall term). Sections I and II M., Tu., Th., at 11, W., 4-6. EXAM GROUP: 4, 9, 13
Reading and discussion of selections from Arabic newspapers and journals on contemporary political, social, religious, and cultural issues in the Arab world. Emphasis on developing advanced reading and speaking skills, with some attention to writing and listening comprehension.
Note: Not open to auditors. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 4363.
Prerequisite: Arabic 121b or equivalent.
Arabic 131b. Advanced Modern Arabic II
Catalog Number: 0697
Sayed Abdallah Ali Elsisi
Half course (spring term). Section I: M., T., Th., at 11, W., 4-6; Section II: M., T., Th., at 12, W., 4-6. EXAM GROUP: 4, 9, 13
A continuation of Arabic 131a or may be taken separately with permission of the instructor. Continued emphasis on advanced reading and speaking skills, and introduction to contemporary Arabic fiction, with emphasis on short stories and novellas.
Note: Not open to auditors. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 4364.
Prerequisite: Arabic 131a or equivalent.
Arabic 133. Advanced Spoken Modern Standard Arabic
Catalog Number: 4747
Carl Sharif El-Tobgui
Half course (fall term). M., T., W., Th., at 1. EXAM GROUP: 6, 15
This course emphasizes the development of advanced speaking and listening skills by exposing students to the Arabic of the contemporary media. Some reading and writing will be required, but classes will revolve around oral presentations and directed conversations.
Note: Not open to auditors.
Prerequisite: Two years of Standard Arabic or the equivalent.
[Arabic 134. Colloquial Levantine Arabic]
Catalog Number: 4154
Khaled Al-Masri
Half course (spring term). M., W., 3–5. EXAM GROUP: 8, 9
Introduces students to Colloquial Levantine Arabic of Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and Israel/Palestine.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09. Not open to auditors.
Prerequisite: At least two years of Standard Arabic or the equivalent, or by permission of the instructor.
Arabic 135. Colloquial Egyptian Arabic
Catalog Number: 4454
William E. Granara
Half course (spring term). M., W., 3–5. EXAM GROUP: 8, 9
Introduces students to Egyptian Arabic, the most widely recognized dialect in the Arab world. The course emphasizes the development of speaking and listening skills through the reinforcement of grammar and vocabulary.
Note: Not open to auditors.
Prerequisite: At least two years of Standard Arabic or the equivalent, or by permission of the instructor.
Arabic 146r. History of the Arabic Languages
Catalog Number: 8526
Wolfhart P. Heinrichs
Half course (spring term). W., 2–4. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8
A presentation of the linguistic and cultural history of the various forms of Arabic, including Old North Arabian, Early Classical Arabic (pre-Islamic poetry and Koran), medieval Islamic Arabic, Middle Arabic (with Judeo-Arabic) and the dialects.
Prerequisite: Two years of Arabic or equivalent.
[Arabic 150r. History of Classical Arabic Literature]
Catalog Number: 7759
Wolfhart P. Heinrichs
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Overview of Classical Arabic literature, including reading and discussion of selected texts.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09. Knowledge of Arabic advantageous but not required. An additional hour may be set aside for reading in the originals.
Arabic 158. Modern Arabic Literature Seminar: Lebanese Civil War in Fiction
Catalog Number: 5145
William E. Granara
Half course (fall term). Th., 4–6. EXAM GROUP: 18
Examines the roots and issues of the Lebanese Civil War (1975-90) and its enormous impact on modern Arabic fiction. The syllabus pairs realistic and romanticized representations of family, sectarian, and gender binaries against the destruction and fantasy of the urban landscape. Themes include nostalgia and memory, exile and return.
Note: Arabic helpful but not required. Open to both undergraduates and graduates.
[Arabic 160r. Readings in Arabic Historians, Geographers, and Biographers]
Catalog Number: 5617
Roy Mottahedeh
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09.
[Arabic 230b. Hadith II: Seminar]
Catalog Number: 4362 Enrollment: Limited to 18.
M. Shahab Ahmed
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Continuation of Arabic 230a.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09. Not open to auditors. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 3975.
Prerequisite: Arabic 230a and advanced proficiency in Arabic.
[Arabic 231a. Qur’an I: Seminar]
Catalog Number: 8707 Enrollment: Limited to 18.
M. Shahab Ahmed
Half course (fall term). M., 2–5. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8
An introduction to the text of the Quran and the historical development of Quranic exegesis, through a reading of tafsir and ‘ulum al-quran works.
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10. Not open to auditors. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 3976.
Prerequisite: Advanced proficiency in Arabic.
[Arabic 231b. Qur’an II: Seminar]
Catalog Number: 0619 Enrollment: Limited to 18.
M. Shahab Ahmed
Half course (spring term). M., 2–5. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8
Continuation of Arabic 231a.
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10. Not open to auditors. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 3977.
Prerequisite: Arabic 231a and advanced proficiency in Arabic.
Arabic 240r. Classical Arabic Philology
Catalog Number: 5920
Wolfhart P. Heinrichs
Full course (indivisible). Tu., 2–4. EXAM GROUP: 16, 17
Arabic philology, including discussion of difficult grammatical problems, introduction to manuscript and editorial work, and readings from the ‘ulûm al-lugha (fall) and ‘ulûm al-dîn (spring).
Note: This constitutes the fourth and final year of the Classical Arabic track.
Arabic 241ar (formerly Arabic 241a). Modern Arabic Literature and Culture
Catalog Number: 3309
Khaled Al-Masri
Half course (fall term). Tu., 2–4, plus an additional hour to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 16, 17
This constitutes the final year of Modern Arabic track. Representative readings from contemporary literature and culture will form bases of discussions on major themes in contemporary Arab society.
Note: Conducted in Arabic. Not open to auditors.
Prerequisite: Advanced proficiency in Arabic.
Arabic 241br (formerly Arabic 241b). Modern Arabic Literature and Culture
Catalog Number: 6399
Khaled Al-Masri
Half course (spring term). Tu., 2–4, plus an additional hour to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 16, 17
A continuation of Arabic 241ar.
Note: Conducted in Arabic. Not open to auditors.
Arabic 245r. Classical Arabic Literature: Seminar
Catalog Number: 4854
Wolfhart P. Heinrichs
Half course (fall term). W., 2–4. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8
Topic for 2007-08: al-Jâhiz and his world.
Prerequisite: Reading knowledge of Arabic.
[Arabic 246r. Andalus, Sicily, and the Maghrib in Literary and Cultural Texts: Seminar]
Catalog Number: 6196
William E. Granara
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Literary and historical texts of the Arabo-Islamic cultures of Spain (al-Andalus), Sicily, and North Africa. Examines the emergence of a "Maghribi" identity amidst cross-cultural relations with the Christian North and the Muslim East.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09.
Prerequisite: Three years of Arabic, or permission from the instructor.
[Arabic 248r. Medieval Arabic Writings on Literary Theory and Criticism: Seminar]
Catalog Number: 1440
Wolfhart P. Heinrichs
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Introduction to the study of the medieval Arabic disciplines dealing with literature. Discussion of selected topics on the basis of text readings and recent secondary literature.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09.
Prerequisite: Reading knowledge of Arabic.
*Arabic 249r. Arabic Philosophical Texts: Seminar
Catalog Number: 3572
Khaled El-Rouayheb
Half course (spring term). Th., 3–5. EXAM GROUP: 17, 18
An introduction to the "science of disputation" (ilm al-munâzara), also called "the rules of enquiry" (âdâb al-bahth), which was for centuries a standard part of the education of scholars throughout the Islamic world.
Prerequisite: Three years of Arabic or equivalent.
Arabic 250r. Arabic Theological Texts: Seminar
Catalog Number: 7849
Khaled El-Rouayheb
Half course (fall term). Th., 3–5. EXAM GROUP: 17, 18
A reading of Sharh al-’Aqa’id al-Nasafiyya by Sa’d al-Din al-Taftazani (d.1390), one of the most widely studied theological works ever written in Islamic civilization.
Note: Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 3883.
Prerequisite: Three years of Arabic or equivalent.
*Arabic 320. Reading and Research in Modern Arabic Literature and Literary Criticism
Catalog Number: 9167
William E. Granara 1054
Aramaic C. Elementary Syriac
Catalog Number: 3494
J. F. Coakley
Full course (indivisible). M., W., F., at 10. EXAM GROUP: 3
Basic Syriac grammar and syntax, with selected readings from the Syriac Bible and other early texts.
Note: Expected to be omitted in 2008–09. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 4109.
Aramaic 128. Introduction to Turoyo
Catalog Number: 3747
Wolfhart P. Heinrichs
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Turoyo is the Neo-Aramaic (originally, and to some extent still) spoken in the Tur Abdin area of Mardin province, SE Turkey, as well as in the Western diaspora (predominantly in Sweden, Germany, the Netherlands, and the US).
Prerequisite: Some knowledge of Syriac or any other classical Aramaic language.
Aramaic 129. Introduction to Babylonian Aramaic - (New Course)
Catalog Number: 6882
John Huehnergard and assistant
Half course (spring term). Th., 1–3. EXAM GROUP: 15, 16
An introduction to the language of the Jewish Babylonian Aramaic
Prerequisite: Prerequisite: One of the following classes: Classical Hebrew A, Modern Hebrew B, Aramaic A or C, or quivalent
Ethiopic 120ar. Readings in Classical Ethiopic (Ge‘ez) Texts I
Catalog Number: 0231
John Huehnergard
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Prerequisite: Ethiopic A.
Ethiopic 120br. Readings in Classical Ethiopic (Ge‘ez) Texts II
Catalog Number: 0390
John Huehnergard
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Prerequisite: Ethiopic A.
Hebrew 177. Introduction to Critical Talmud Scholarship - (New Course)
Catalog Number: 6485
Bernard Septimus
Half course (spring term). W., 2–4. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8
Designed to introduce students to the philological, historical and source-critical methods used in the contemporary academic study of Talmud and Midrash, through the study of selected passages.
Prerequisite: Ability to prepare a Talmudic text.
Classical Hebrew 120a. Intermediate Classical Hebrew I
Catalog Number: 5545
Jo Ann Hackett and assistant
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 11:30–1. EXAM GROUP: 13, 14
Readings in prose books; review of grammar.
Note: Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 4020.
Prerequisite: Classical Hebrew A or equivalent.
Classical Hebrew 120b. Intermediate Classical Hebrew II
Catalog Number: 8494
Jo Ann Hackett and assistant
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 11:30–1. EXAM GROUP: 13, 14
Readings in prose and poetic books; review of grammar.
Note: Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 4021.
Prerequisite: Classical Hebrew 120a or equivalent.
Classical Hebrew 130ar. Rapid Reading Classical Hebrew I
Catalog Number: 7895
Jo Ann Hackett and assistant
Half course (fall term). W., 1–3. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
Note: Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 1625/4030.
Prerequisite: Classical Hebrew A, 120a, and 120b, or equivalent.
Classical Hebrew 130br. Rapid Reading Classical Hebrew II
Catalog Number: 7896
Jo Ann Hackett and assistant
Half course (spring term). W., 1–3. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
Note: Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 1626/4031.
Prerequisite: Classical Hebrew 130a or equivalent.
Classical Hebrew 135. Introduction to Mishnaic Hebrew - (New Course)
Catalog Number: 2263
John Huehnergard and assistant
Half course (fall term). Th., 1–3. EXAM GROUP: 15, 16
An introduction to the language of the Hebrew of the MishnaI and the rabbinic literature.
Prerequisite: Prerequisite: Classical Hebrew A, Modern Hebrew B, or equivalent
[Classical Hebrew 138. Historical Grammar of Biblical Hebrew ]
Catalog Number: 4415
John Huehnergard
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., at 1. EXAM GROUP: 15
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09.
Prerequisite: Classical Hebrew 130, or equivalent.
Modern Hebrew B. Elementary Modern Hebrew
Catalog Number: 4810
Miri Kubovy and Irit Aharony
Full course (indivisible). Section I: M. through F., at 9; Section II: M. through F., at 10. EXAM GROUP: 2, 11
For students with no previous instruction in Hebrew and for those who have had some unsystematic exposure to the language. Emphasis on developing skills necessary for fluent reading, speaking, and writing basic sentences in all tenses. Grammar is taught through the Israeli “Top 40.”
Note: Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 4015.
Modern Hebrew 120a. Intermediate Modern Hebrew I
Catalog Number: 1711
Irit Aharony and Anna Grinfeld
Half course (fall term). Section I: M. through F., at 10. Section II: M. through F., at 11. EXAM GROUP: 3, 12
Continuation of Modern Hebrew B. Selected readings from 20th-century Hebrew literature prose, poetry, drama, and the language of the current Israeli media, including newspapers, magazines, and satires. The linguistic analysis of the texts is followed by a literary discussion as well as an examination of the individual works in relation to various trends in modern Hebrew culture.
Note: Conducted primarily in Hebrew. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 4040.
Prerequisite: Modern Hebrew B or passing of special departmental placement test.
Modern Hebrew 120b. Intermediate Modern Hebrew II
Catalog Number: 2563
Irit Aharony and Anna Grinfeld
Half course (spring term). Section I: M. through F., at 10. Section II: M. through F., at 11. EXAM GROUP: 3, 12
Continuation of Modern Hebrew 120a.
Note: Conducted primarily in Hebrew. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 4041.
Prerequisite: Modern Hebrew 120a.
Modern Hebrew 125a. Advanced Modern Hebrew I
Catalog Number: 4985
Anna Grinfeld
Half course (fall term). M., W., 1–2:30. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
Continuation of Intermediate Modern Hebrew 120a and 120b. The course explores oral and textual forms of the language such as journalism, literature, poetry, plays, music, and more. The course will take a broad look at Israeli culture and current events via the media: radio, television, the internet, and the arts. The course goal is to further develop practical skills in the language.
Note: Conducted in Hebrew. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 4042.
Prerequisite: Modern Hebrew 120a, 120b, or equivalent.
Modern Hebrew 125b. Advanced Modern Hebrew II
Catalog Number: 3201
Miri Kubovy
Half course (spring term). M., W., 1–2:30. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
Continuation of Modern Hebrew 125a. The course explores advanced and sophisticated issues in grammar, syntax, style, and idioms of the language. It prepares students to work with more advanced materials from the media, scholarly texts for research, and literature.
Note: Conducted in Hebrew. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 4043.
Prerequisite: Modern Hebrew 120a, 120b, and 125a.
Modern Hebrew 130r. Contemporary Israeli Culture
Catalog Number: 8127
Miri Kubovy
Half course (fall term). W., 6:45–9:45 p.m. EXAM GROUP: 9
Surveys typical examples of contemporary Israeli culture: novels, short stories, poetry, feminist literature, Holocaust literature, literary and political journals and magazines, theater and films, rock music from the "Top 40," all representing current cultural trends and expressing attitudes toward social and political issues. Includes exposure to the language of the current Israeli media.
Note: Discussion, papers, and texts presented in Hebrew. This constitutes one of the fourth year courses of the Modern Hebrew track.
Prerequisite: Modern Hebrew 125a, 125b or equivalent.
Modern Hebrew 134 (formerly Modern Hebrew 134r). Israel’s Sixty Years in Words, Images and Tunes
Catalog Number: 6949
Irit Aharony
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 1–3. EXAM GROUP: 15, 16
We propose a unique course on the eve of Israel sixtieth anniversary. In this course we will follow chronologically the development of the Israeli culture through the most representative productions of Israeli cinema, Israeli songs, and Israeli writers, poets and scholars. We will study the many facets of Israeli society in various expressions of language, music and images. We will especially emphasize the changes that occurred in the Modern Hebrew language (slang and other layers of language) since the establishment of the State of Israel to today.
Note: Conducted in Hebrew. This constitutes one of the fourth year courses of the Modern Hebrew track.
Prerequisite: Modern Hebrew 125a, 125b, or equivalent.
[Modern Hebrew 135r. How to Say "I Love You” in Hebrew]
Catalog Number: 1159
Irit Aharony
Half course (spring term). M., W., 1–2:30. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
A survey of literary Hebrew texts about love from different periods and origins. This survey includes: Biblical love stories, the concept of love in the Midrash and Agadah through the literature of the Middle Ages, the New Hebrew Literature of the early 20th century, and today’s literature. Differences between ancient Hebrew and Modern Hebrew are examined. The goal of the course is to improve reading, writing, and speaking skills for advanced Modern Hebrew students.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09. Conducted in Hebrew. This constitutes one of the fourth year courses of the Modern Hebrew track.
Prerequisite: Modern Hebrew 125a, 125b or the equivalent.
Modern Hebrew 136r. Hebrew for Academic Reading
Catalog Number: 3383
Anna Grinfeld
Half course (fall term; repeated spring term). Tu., Th., 1:30–3. EXAM GROUP: 15, 16
Hebrew for academic reading is designed for advanced undergraduate and graduate students with a strong background knowledge of Hebrew, seeking to master reading skills in a range of Hebrew texts in the fields of Jewish studies, Middle Eastern studies, government, literature, religion, and history. Some selections of the reading material will be decided by the individual needs and interests of the students.
Note: Conducted in Hebrew.
[Hebrew 160. The Origins and Development of the Classical Jewish Liturgy]
Catalog Number: 9703
Bernard Septimus
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
An examination of current scholarship and controversy on the origins of the classical liturgy and a consideration of the primary-source evidence. Related topics include: rabbinic liturgy and Second Temple sources, differences between the ancient Palestinian and Babylonian rites, the standard prayers and the origins of liturgical poetry (piyyut), the crystallization of the liturgy, and the emergence of local variations in the early Middle Ages.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09.
Prerequisite: A good reading knowledge of Hebrew.
[Hebrew 171. The Problem of Language in Medieval Jewish Thought]
Catalog Number: 7205
Bernard Septimus
Half course (fall term). W., 3–5. EXAM GROUP: 8, 9
The status and significance of language generally and Hebrew, in particular, viewed from a variety of perspectives in texts from several genres (exegetical, linguistic, literary, legal, philosophical and mystical) ranging chronologically from late antiquity through the Renaissance.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09.
Prerequisite: A good reading knowledge of Hebrew.
Hebrew 191. From Jewish Literature to Israeli Literature: Seminar
Catalog Number: 3376
Avi Matalon
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Examines the development and transition of Hebrew literature from Europe to Israel beginning in the 1850s.
Prerequisite: Reading knowledge of Modern Hebrew required.
*Hebrew 200r. Problems in the Literature, History, and Religion of Israel: Seminar
Catalog Number: 3265
Peter Machinist, Lawrence E. Stager and members of the Department
Half course (fall term). Th., 3–5. EXAM GROUP: 17, 18
Topic for 2007-08: Israel and the Jews in the Persian Period.
Note: Primarily for doctoral students in Hebrew Bible. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 1810.
[Hebrew 208r. Literature of Israel: Seminar]
Catalog Number: 1356
Peter Machinist
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Topic for 2006-07: The Book of Exodus.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09. Jointly offered with the Divinity School as 1825.
Prerequisite: Advanced reading knowledge of biblical Hebrew. Acquaintance with other relevant ancient and modern languages desirable.
[Hebrew 209r. Literature of Israel: Seminar]
Catalog Number: 1326
Peter Machinist
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Topic for 2008-09: To be announced.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 1824.
Prerequisite: Good reading knowledge of biblical Hebrew. Acquaintance with other relevant ancient and modern languages desirable.
[Hebrew 211r. Literature of Israel: Seminar]
Catalog Number: 0727 Enrollment: Limited to 10.
Paul D. Hanson (Divinity School)
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
The Book of Ezekiel, studied through the application of historical-critical methods of research, with attention to the relation of the Book to earlier prophetic and halakic tradition and to its influence on Second Temple Judaism.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 1821.
Prerequisite: Intermediate to advanced reading knowledge of biblical Hebrew.
[Hebrew 217. The Medieval Torah Commentary: A Practical Introduction: Seminar]
Catalog Number: 5883
Jon D. Levenson (Divinity School)
Half course (spring term). W., 1–3. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
An introduction to the use of medieval Jewish biblical commentaries as a resource for modern exegetes. Some comparison of the medieval hermeneutical presuppositions with those of the distinctively modern forms of biblical study.
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 1836.
Prerequisite: Three years of college-level Hebrew (any period).
[Hebrew 218. Joseph and Esther: Seminar]
Catalog Number: 0880
Jon D. Levenson (Divinity School)
Half course (fall term). W., 1–3. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
A close critical reading of Genesis 37-50 and the Book of Esther in Hebrew. Emphasis on literary design and religious messages and on the influence of the story of Joseph upon the Book of Esther.
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 1802.
Prerequisite: Three years of Hebrew or the equivalent.
[Hebrew 235. The Binding of Isaac (Aqedah): Seminar]
Catalog Number: 0170
Jon D. Levenson (Divinity School)
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
An examination of Genesis 22 and its afterlife in ancient Judaism, early Christianity, and the Qur’an. Ample consideration of the interpretation and expansion of the story in modern theology and of critical responses to it.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 1808.
Prerequisite: Three years of Hebrew or the equivalent.
[Hebrew 236. Song at the Sea: Seminar]
Catalog Number: 6496
Jon D. Levenson (Divinity School)
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
A close reading of Exod 13:17-15:21 in two contexts, that of the Hebrew Bible (together with its ancient Near Eastern background) and that of rabbinic Judaism. Ample Hebrew readings in rabbinic midrash.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09. Offered jointly with the Divinity School as 1816.
Prerequisite: An introductory course in the critical study of the Hebrew Bible and a solid command of Hebrew grammar (any period).
*Hebrew 350. Postbiblical Hebrew Language and Literature
Catalog Number: 4408
Shaye J.D. Cohen 4180, Jay M. Harris 2266, and Bernard Septimus 7160
Iranian Ca. Middle Persian I
Catalog Number: 0978
P. Oktor Skjaervo
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 8, 9
Introduction to Middle Persian (Pahlavi or Manichean Middle Persian/Parthian).
Iranian Cbr. Middle Persian II
Catalog Number: 1696
P. Oktor Skjaervo
Half course (spring term). M., 2–4. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8
Readings in Middle Persian (Pahlavi or Manichean Middle Persian/Parthian).
Persian 120a. Intermediate Persian I
Catalog Number: 2206
Dalia Yasharpour
Half course (fall term). M., W., F., at 10, and two additional hours to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 3
Readings in modern prose literature. Introduction to classical metrics and prosody. Readings in classical prose and poetry.
Persian 120b. Intermediate Persian II
Catalog Number: 3712
Dalia Yasharpour
Half course (spring term). M., W., F., at 10, and two additional hours to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 3
Continuation of Persian 120a.
[Persian 140ar. Advanced Persian]
Catalog Number: 0814
Dalia Yasharpour
Half course (spring term). M., W., 2–3:30. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8
Selected topics in Classical Persian literature for the advanced student. Readings from historical and belletristic texts, as well as modern selections.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09.
Prerequisite: Persian 120b or equivalent.
Persian 140br. Selected Readings in Classical Persian Literature
Catalog Number: 0258
Dalia Yasharpour
Half course (fall term). M., W., 2–3:30. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8
A continuation of Persian 140ar.
Persian 150r. Readings in Persian Historians, Geographers and Biographers
Catalog Number: 6538
Roy Mottahedeh
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Semitic Philology 151. Introduction to Northwest Semitic Epigraphy
Catalog Number: 2858
Jo Ann Hackett
Half course (fall term). Tu., 2–4. EXAM GROUP: 16, 17
Readings in Hebrew and Phoenician inscriptions with an introduction to methods and techniques of Northwest Semitic palaeography, and attention to problems of historical grammar.
Prerequisite: Classical Hebrew 138 or Semitic Philology 140.
[Semitic Philology 152. Introduction to Ugaritic]
Catalog Number: 2777
Jo Ann Hackett
Half course (fall term). F., 2–4. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8
Introduction to Ugaritic grammar, with readings in mythological, epistolary, and administrative texts.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09.
Prerequisite: Semitic Philology 140 or equivalent.
Turkish 120a. Intermediate Turkish I
Catalog Number: 4009
Hakan T. Karateke
Half course (fall term). M., Tu., Th., F., at 10. EXAM GROUP: 3, 12
Emphasis on complex sentence structure and building communicative competence in describing events and expressing ideas through exercises in reading, writing, and speaking.
Note: Not open to auditors.
Prerequisite: Turkish A or equivalent.
Turkish 120b. Intermediate Turkish II
Catalog Number: 1394
Hakan T. Karateke
Half course (spring term). M., Tu., Th., F., at 10. EXAM GROUP: 3, 12
Studies in argumentative and literary prose.
Note: Not open to auditors.
Prerequisite: Turkish 120a or equivalent.
Turkish 130a. Advanced Turkish I
Catalog Number: 6964
Hakan T. Karateke
Half course (fall term). W., 12–3. EXAM GROUP: 5, 6, 7
Gaining and improving advanced language skills in Modern Turkish through reading, writing, listening, and speaking with special emphasis on the proper usage of vocabulary and idiomatic expressions.
Note: Not open to auditors.
Prerequisite: Turkish 120b or equivalent.
Turkish 130b. Advanced Turkish II
Catalog Number: 4354
Hakan T. Karateke
Half course (spring term). W., 1–4. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7, 8
Studies in literary and idiomatic prose through readings, discussions, and writing of short analytical papers.
Note: Not open to auditors.
Prerequisite: Turkish 130a or equivalent.
Turkish 140a. Introduction to Ottoman Turkish I
Catalog Number: 8163
Helga Anetshofer
Half course (spring term). Th., at 12, Tu., 1–3. EXAM GROUP: 14, 15, 16
Introduction to basic orthographic conventions and grammatical characteristics of Ottoman Turkish through readings in printed selections from the 19th and 20th centuries, and exercises on techniques.
Note: Not open to auditors.
Prerequisite: Turkish A or equivalent; one year of Arabic or Persian desirable.
Turkish 140b. Introduction to Ottoman Turkish II
Catalog Number: 8298
Helga Anetshofer
Half course (fall term). Tu., 1–3, Th., at 2. EXAM GROUP: 15, 16
Continuation of Turkish 140a. Exercises on specialized orthographic conventions and grammatical characteristics of Ottoman Turkish through readings in printed selections from the 19th and 20th centuries.
Note: Not open to auditors.
Prerequisite: Turkish 140a or equivalent.
Turkish 145. Introduction to Old Anatolian Turkish
Catalog Number: 0095
Helga Anetshofer
Half course (fall term). Th., at 1, M., 1–3. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
Grammatical, orthographic, and stylistic characteristics of Old Anatolian Turkish through reading and analysis of selected primary sources from the 13th to the 15th centuries.
Note: Not open to auditors.
Prerequisite: Turkish 140a or equivalent.
[Turkish 146. Readings in Old Anatolian Turkish Narrative Prose]
Catalog Number: 6628
Helga Anetshofer
Half course (spring term). Th., at 1, M., 1–3. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
Specialized grammatical and orthographic characteristics of Old Anatolian Turkish narrative prose through reading of different genres of handwritten documents from the 14th and 15th centuries.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09. Not open to auditors.
Prerequisite: Turkish 140b or equivalent.
Turkish 147a. Advanced Uzbek I
Catalog Number: 3846
Helga Anetshofer and assistant
Half course (fall term). M., Tu., Th., F., at 10.
A continuation of Intermediate Uzbek.
Prerequisite: Turkish 125b or equivalent.
Turkish 147b. Advanced Uzbek II
Catalog Number: 4820
Helga Anetshofer and assistant
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Continuation of Turkish 147a.
Prerequisite: Turkish 147a or equivalent.
[Turkish 152. Middle Turkic]
Catalog Number: 6849
Helga Anetshofer
Half course (spring term). Tu., at 11, F., 1–3. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7, 13
Comparative survey of Middle Turkic texts, analyzing the phonology, morphology, and syntax of the Middle Turkic languages. Reading and translation of Karakhanid, Khorazmian Turkic and Kipchak sources.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09. Not open to auditors.
Prerequisite: Knowledge of one Middle Turkic language, including Old Anatolian Turkish or Chagatai.
Turkish 156. From Empire to Republic: The Making of Turkish Nationalism - (New Course)
Catalog Number: 9255
Halil Berktay
Half course (fall term). M., 2–5. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8, 9
Overlaps between the New Imperialism (1875-1914), and the twilight of old empires (Russian, Austro-Hungarian, Ottoman). Parties to the Eastern Question : the Great Powers, Balkan nationalisms, and "the Sick Man of Europe". The homogenisations of modernization, the ethnic cleansings and other demographic dislocations of nation-building. Ottoman Turks in purgatory : between the "historical nations" and the "people without history". Two hundred years of hypocrisy between Turkey and Europe. The complex transition from 19th century varieties of Ottoman identity or Muslim patriotism to Turkish nationalism in the throes of a protracted crisis over 1908-22. The search for a viable past in literature : contemporary traumas vs mytho-historical ways of compensation. Theories of "betrayal" and "just revenge". Alternative "golden ages". Grafting a national discourse onto an Ottoman-centred imperial discourse. The emergence of a cornered, confused, fearful and wrathful identity. Linkages to current ideo-political problems.
Yiddish Ba. Intermediate Yiddish I
Catalog Number: 6023
Yuri Vedenyapin
Half course (fall term). M., W., 1–2:30.
Further develops the four basic communication skills. Includes selected readings from modern Yiddish literature.
Prerequisite: Yiddish A or equivalent.
Yiddish Bb. Intermediate Yiddish II
Catalog Number: 1239
Yuri Vedenyapin
Half course (spring term). Section l: M., W., at 11; Section ll: M., W., at 12.
Continuation of Yiddish Ba.
Yiddish Ca. Advanced Yiddish I
Catalog Number: 8331
Yuri Vedenyapin
Half course (fall term). M., W., 3–4:30. EXAM GROUP: 8, 9
Yiddish Cb. Advanced Yiddish II
Catalog Number: 8968
Yuri Vedenyapin
Half course (spring term). M., W., 1–2:30. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
Prerequisite: Yiddish Ca or equivalent.
Yiddish 104. Faith and Reason in Modern Yiddish Literature - (New Course)
Catalog Number: 9102
Ruth R. Wisse
Half course (fall term). Th., 1–3. EXAM GROUP: 15, 16
Declining confidence in God and growing faith in human reason inspired the renaissance of Yiddish and Hebrew literatures, until their writers began to doubt its "improvements." Course examines this premise studying major works of fiction, drama, and poetry by I. L. Peretz,Sholem Aleichem, Bialik, An-sky, Asch, Brenner, Berdyczewski, the family Singer, and others. Readings in English. Added section available for readers of Yiddish.
[Yiddish 109. The Yiddish Novel Under Tsars and Stripes]
Catalog Number: 6009
Ruth R. Wisse
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Studies the emergence of the Yiddish novel as a major literary form in Russia, Poland, and the US. Begins with the pioneer of modern Yiddish and Hebrew prose, Mendele Mocher Sforim, includes Sholem Aleichem, Sholem Asch, David Bergelson, Der Nister, and the family Singer: Israel Joshua, Isaac Bashevis, and Esther Kreitman. Highly compressed development of the genre reflects great artistic, ideological, and thematic variety.
Note: Expected to be given in 2008–09. All works available in English translation. There will be an extra section for Yiddish readers.