ARAB 325 - Classical Arabic Prose Lit

Credits: 4

This course is an introduction to the lexicon and grammar of classical Arabic prose, with emphasis on religious literature. Students will read mainly from the Quran (the first book written down in Arabic) in addition to Hadiths, excerpts from the Arabic translation of the Bible, and other sources from the rich corpus of religious literature in Arabic. Class sessions will be devoted to vocabulary and grammar drills, close reading, and oral translation. It has long been known that the best language learners memorize not only words but phrases, sentences, and culturally important and relevant texts. In keeping with the definition of culture as the collective memory of a people, students will memorize a number of Quranic verses and shorter chapters in addition to the Lord?s prayer, the Beatitudes, and several idioms, Sufi sayings and hadiths? and recite these texts with correct vocalization in class. Offered regularly every other year. Prerequisites: ARAB 204. This course is chiefly aimed for advanced students in Arabic Studies. Students who have prior knowledge of Quranic Arabic or are heritage speakers of Arabic may also enroll if approved by the instructor.