Students will study Middle Eastern Literature, in English translation, by examining major works by Arab and Arab-American writers from the advent of World War II to the present. Students are introduced to major Middle Eastern literary topics and themes, most notably from those countries that felt the greatest impact of Western influence, signaling a change in literary technique and theme. Students will read from several genres, including novel, short story, poetry, and historical nonfiction. Through readings, students will explore the broad social, cultural, and political changes wrought by Western presence, including the changing roles of women in Arab/Islamic culture.