The conflicts in the Middle East grow more confusing and dangerous every day and understanding the region is no longer optional – it is mandatory! This two course sequence is intended to be a “GPS” to help navigate the dramatically changing region. The collapse of the Ottoman Empire at the conclusion of WWI, the arbitrary creation of nation-states, spasms of Arab nationalism, animosities within the Islamic faith and the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948 have created an ominously unstable region.

We will focus on the dynamic 19th and 20th century movements that shaped the current political and social landscape in the Middle East. A second course, in the spring, will focus on post WWII realities, including the emergence of the state of Israel, and the ominous tensions behind today’s headlines.

Format: Class participants should read the text prior to the beginning of the class and are expected to choose one of the following three options:

(1) A 10-20 minute presentation on a suggested or approved topic or individual followed by class discussion.

(2) Participation in a debate or performance on a suggested topic or individual.

(3) Leading a structured class discussion on one of the suggested topics.

This is a Zoom video conferencing class.

Resources/Expenses: Our basic text will be A Concise History of the Middle East by Arthur Goldschmidt Jr. and Lawrence Davidson. There are many editions available as both new and used paperbacks from $5.95 and up on Amazon. An additional bibliography will be provided by the coordinators.