Semester One 2020-21: September 7, 2020 –February 5, 2021

Course Duration: 17 Weeks

This module aims to introduce students to the academic study of Muslim history. It provides students with the knowledge of the development of Muslim history in its early age, as well as the principles leading to define and assess the events as they developed. This module acquaints students with classical texts of history and an introduction to the renowned early and later historians along with the works of some of the prominent orientalists.

Moreover this module will also introduce students to the history of pre-Islamic Arabia (also known as the period of Jāhiliyya), and will critically evaluate the economic, socio-political and moral norms and values of this period. After analyzing the Jāhiliyya period, this module focuses on providing a detailed and critical study of the history of Prophet Muhammad, discussing the major social, historical, political and religious/spiritual events that occurred during the Prophet’s life.

Syllabus:

The following are the subjects that are discussed in this module:

– Definition, principles and methodology of the science of Muslim history, together with an introduction to the works and literature of classical and later historians, and orientalists. (Weeks 1-3)

– Critical evaluation of pre-Islamic Arabian History (Jāhiliyya), including a study of the norms, values and socio-political life of this period. (Weeks 4-8)

– A detailed study of the major social, historical, political and religious/spiritual events in the life of the Prophet. (Weeks 9-17)

Learning outcomes:

On completion of this module, the successful student will:

1. Be able to define the principles and methodology discussed in the science of Muslim history.

2. Be acquainted with Muslim and Orientalist literature that treating Muslim history.

3. Have knowledge of the economic norms, moral values and socio-political life of the Jāhiliyya period.

4. Have knowledge of the major social, historical, political and religious/spiritual events that occurred during the life of the Prophet.

Source: almahdy.edu