Contemporary Arab Literature (Graduate Level)

This course is designed for very advanced students who have completed at least four years of Arabic. It is especially suited to graduate students, junior scholars, and those whose primary teaching and research are conducted in Arabic. Students explore various aspects of contemporary Arab societies including art, literature, media, and culture. They study classical and modern poetry, short stories, novels, and contemporary political discourses. Students in this course have regular and frequent opportunities to expand their vocabulary in a broad range of debates and discussions surrounding these disciplines, and in the context of the Middlebury College's Arabic-only environment. Classes feature daily discussions as well as meetings with visiting scholars that work together to provide unparalleled exposure to high level Arabic. In addition, students review grammar and hone their writing skills by completing short daily essays, papers and final research projects. (2 units)