RLST057 CM - Islamic Empire and Political Philosophy

This course is an introduction to Islamic political thought, with special attention paid to the contributions of the Fatimid Empire (909-1171). The Fatimids, who controlled a large portion of the Mediterranean, brought about a number of remarkable achievements under their rule: the founding of Cairo; unprecedented ritual pageantry surrounding the leader, the caliph-imam; and major advancements in theology, arts, and sciences. In this course we will think through major issues in the way political philosophy helped to guide the empire-issues such as the role of apocalypticism as a revolutionary theology; the place of secrecy in governing; and how religious symbolism could explain declines in political power. As the Fatimids were Shia, we will also cover various similarities and differences between Sunni and Shia political philosophies.

Offered: Every other year

Credit: 1

Course Number: RLST057 CM