Students will be presented with a general outline of the history of Islam from the seventh century to the present day. The course also examines the development of the central institutions of Islam in the context of that history. Special attention will be paid to particular developments and institutions such as: the emergence of Islam; the Qur'an and basic Islamic teachings; Islamic Jurisprudence; and political institutions (e.g. the Caliphate), which have influenced the modern political debate in Muslim communities in the Middle East and Southeast Asia.

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate knowledge of significant dates and events in Islamic history.

2. Reflect on and discuss the ways in which Muslims have interacted over time with other Muslims, on the one hand, and non-Muslims, on the other.

3. Analyse critical debates about, and schools of thought on, the meaning of key elements of the faith, such as the Qur'an and Prophet, pilgrimage, Islamic law, and the caliphate.

4. Develop an awareness of the interaction between doctrine and context in the understanding of Islam as a faith and a social force.

1. One 1,500 word essay - 50% (Learning Outcomes 2, 3 & 4)

2. End of semester examination (2 hours) - 40% (assesses all Learning Outcomes)

3. Tutorial assessment based readings and discussions - 10% (assesses all Learning Outcomes)

2 x one-hour lectures and 1 x one-hour tutorial per week for 13 weeks, and an additional 7 hours per week private study.

Incompatible with MEAS2104 Islam:History and Institutions

Nil

There is no set textbook for this course. Readings for each week will be supplied via Wattle.