70019 Introduction to Islamic Art
Panagiotis C. Poulos
University Teacher (PD 407/80)
3 hours per week
Course Objectives
This course is an introduction to the visual and performing arts of the Islamic world. Various art forms and their interrelation are examined diachronically with reference to the major historical dynasties of the Middle East, from the rise of Islam to the 18th century. Among the key topics concerning the relation between Islam and the arts that are comprehensively discussed and analysed are the issues of iconicity in visual arts and the permissibility of the use of music in Islamic rituals. Emphasis is given on the study of Islamic culture on a local level, focusing on the diverse meanings and functions of the arts in their historical context. Contemporary artistic trends are selectively examined.
The purpose of this course is to develop an interdisciplinary and critical approach to the study of arts in the Islamic world, drawing on a number of methodological and analytical tools from different academic fields (i.e. anthropology, ethnomusicology, post-colonial studies). This approach aims to contribute to a broader understanding of the notion of culture.
Course Structure
The course comprises four basic units. The introductory unit examines the Islamic art and culture in the Western world, in relation to the critical debates on orientalism. The second unit addresses key issues on the relation between Islam and the arts. The third unit is an overview of selected topics from diverse artistic fields of the major historical dynasties of the Middle East. The final unit focuses selectively on contemporary artistic trends in the Middle East.
Assessment
Assessment is based on (i) a 1000-1500 words essay; (b)Written final examination.
Bibliography
Blair, Sheila & Bloom, Jonathan. 2001. Ισλαμικές τέχνες. Αθήνα: Καστανιώτης.
_____ 2003. «The Mirage of Islamic Art: Reflections on the Study of an Unwieldy Field». The Art Bulletin 85.1:152-184.
Geertz, Clifford. 1976. «Art as a Cultural Symbol». Modern Language Notes, 91:1473-99.
Μακρής, Γεράσιμος. 2004. Ισλάμ: Πεποιθήσεις, πρακτικές και τάσεις. Αθήνα: Ελληνικά Γράμματα.
Nelson, Kristina. 2001. The Art of Reciting the Qur’an. Cairo & New York: American University in Cairo Press.
Said, Edward W. 1996 [1978]. Οριενταλισμός. Αθήνα: Νεφέλη.
Shiloah, Amnon, 1995. Music in the World of Islam: A Socio-Cultural Approach. Detroit: Wayne State University Press