141388 SE Arabic philology: Classical Arabic poetry (2022S)

The course focuses on Ancient Arabic Literature, and the Pre-Islamic Poetry in Particular. Itprovides a comprehensivepicture of the classicalArabic poetry through a selection of poems on a wide range of topics. In this class, the literature will be examined in relation to the contextual settings as a creative reflection of the period. We will examine the poems in order to comprehend their content, identify the poetic techniques, and learn more about the authors. Students will also befamiliarizedwith the most significant poetry verses from the pre-Islamic era, which are featured in Al-Mu‘allaqat and Al-Mufaddaliyat. Ancient poetry tells us not only about unique tribal behaviours in Arabia, but also about therich language that reflects the serenity and sufferingsof the area before Islam. Aims of the courseUpon the completion of this course learners will,- be familiar with basic concepts from the social environment of the Pre-Islamic Arabia. - learn more about the lives of the Ancient Arab poets and the circumstances in which classic poetry has been created. - be able to analyse the literature in relation to social context to of the period from a variety of perspectives.- be able to critically reflect on the different poetic themes that exist in the Pre-Islamic era.Methods of Instruction :The class will be based on teacher's input and students' prior reading, which will enable engaged discussions, either in small groups or in a larger setting. Students will prepare short presentations and use those as a basis for discussion. This class is planned as an on-site course.