This course looks at the ways in which religion has figured in movements for change in Southeast Asia from the 19th century to the present. Religion shapes time, space, power, leadership, morality, and so forth, and thus enables us to understand the ideologies and mentalities popular as well as elite that have left their mark on the historical record. Among the topics to be examined are the ways that religious movements have been harnessed by the state and the ways in which religions can be reinterpreted in a manner that escapes official control. Of particular importance to the course are the religious underpinnings of anti-colonial movements and religion as a critique as well as a vehicle of modernity.

Class participation (20%), 1st Essay (20%), 2nd Essay (30%), Final exam (30%). Graduate students attend joint classes with undergraduates but may expect more rigorous assessment and additional assignment work, tailored to the graduate students’ interests. Graduate students may expect a final assignment rather than an exam.

Permission of coordinator

Ileto, R, 'Religion and Anti-colonial Movements', in the Cambridge History of Southeast Asia, vol 2