ANTH 220 Cultures of the Middle East

This course raises epistemological inquiry regarding the study of Middle Eastern cultures. It focuses on the cultures and societies of the Middle East and aims to provide analytical insights into modes of cultural identification and life of the various social, religious, and ethnic groups, beyond the media headlines and the imagery often used to represent the Middle East. Students will study the geography and history of the Middle East as they apply to the development of various cultures, attitudes, and beliefs. They will compare and contrast various institutions, both governmental and social, among the countries of these regions. Students will also look at the expression of the culture through art, music, food, dress, and literature.

Credits

3

Prerequisite

Eligible to enroll in ENGL 121

Hours Weekly

3 hours weekly

Course Objectives

1. 1. Identify the core concepts and methods anthropologists use to describe and analyze culture
   and apply them to a variety of Middle Eastern case studies.
2. 2. Identify the physical and cultural geography of the region and their effects on the region’s
   culture and people.
3. 3. Compare and contrast representations of the region in the world media and the events and
   issues behind these headlines.
4. 4. Demonstrate knowledge of cultural etiquette and protocol to manage cultural barriers and
   miscommunications effectively.
5. 5. Explain the broad scope of Middle Eastern history by focusing on major events within the
   region.
6. 6. Demonstrate an understanding of the ancient traditions, values, and folklore as they exist
   today in the region.
7. 7. Analyze the role of religion and spirituality in shaping the values, morals, and views held by
   various groups in the region and compare to one’s own perspective.
8. 8. Analyze the social structures of tribes, households, and families within the region and their
   impact on values, politics, economics, and ethics.

Course Objectives

1. 1. Identify the core concepts and methods anthropologists use to describe and analyze culture
   and apply them to a variety of Middle Eastern case studies.
2. 2. Identify the physical and cultural geography of the region and their effects on the region’s
   culture and people.
3. 3. Compare and contrast representations of the region in the world media and the events and
   issues behind these headlines.
4. 4. Demonstrate knowledge of cultural etiquette and protocol to manage cultural barriers and
   miscommunications effectively.
5. 5. Explain the broad scope of Middle Eastern history by focusing on major events within the
   region.
6. 6. Demonstrate an understanding of the ancient traditions, values, and folklore as they exist
   today in the region.
7. 7. Analyze the role of religion and spirituality in shaping the values, morals, and views held by
   various groups in the region and compare to one’s own perspective.
8. 8. Analyze the social structures of tribes, households, and families within the region and their
   impact on values, politics, economics, and ethics.