The Cosmopolitan Medieval Arabic World

Welcome to this Course

• Introduction to the course and instructor.
• Guidance on succeeding in the online class.
• Insight into Leiden University and how to subscribe for J-stor.
• Community guidelines and learning path introduction.

The Medieval Islamic City

• Exploration of the Islamic City and its historical significance.
• Insights into the Hammam and the essence of the Islamic City.
• Podcast and source material on medical commentary and Arabic versus Greek influences.
• Virtual tour of Baghdad and historical comparisons with the present.

Travel & Religion

• Examination of Hajj Darb Zuybada and the experience of different religious groups.
• Insights into the origins of the schism and the coexistence of religious communities.
• Exploration of the impact of religion on trade and the pilgrimage experience.
• Podcast on performing the Hajj and religious significance.

Trade

• Understanding the effects of trade on Islamic society and legal innovations.
• Insights into the slave trade, Orientalism, and the travel of goods and ideas.
• Exploration of trade dynamics and academic debates on Orientalism.
• Podcast on the historical perspective of the slave trade.

Power Play

• Exploring the reality of the Harem and the Mamluk army.
• Insights into political intercession at court and historical perspectives on slavery.
• Discussion of power dynamics and the influence of slavery on politics.
• Podcast on the significant figures and events in power play.

Science

• Uncovering the advancements in Arabic science and the translation movement.
• Exploration of the travel of medical knowledge and transcultural experiences.
• Insights into the creation of Arabic collections in Europe and the impact on science.
• Podcast on the influential stories of scientific figures in the medieval Arabic world.

In conclusion: the Cosmopolitan Medieval Arabic World

• Reflections on the diverse, dynamic, and connected nature of the medieval Arabic world.
• Engagement with the use and abuse of history and surprising course takeaways.