PPR476: Classical Islam

Objectives

This module provides an introductory survey of the main beliefs and practices of the Islamic faith, together with an examination of their development during the classical period covering the 7th to 12th centuries. Commencing with an overview of the Qur'an and the Prophetic Traditions (Hadith), the religious disciplines of the law and theology will be examined within mainstream Sunni thought; the chief features of the Shi'a and Sufi religious perspectives will also be explored. It is essential for students with no previous knowledge of Islam to read at least one introductory text in the first week of the course; this will enable them to grasp the essentials of works (read in translation) by major Muslim thinkers of the classical period in the various disciplines covered.

Select Bibliography

Hodgson, Marshall The Venture of Islam (volume 1)

Khalidi, Tarif Classical Arab Islam

Waines, David An Introduction to Islam

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