REL 342 - Islam and Muslim Societies in Africa

A broad comparative and historical exploration of Islam and Muslim societies in Africa, in all their diversity, and with particular emphasis on the period from ca. 1750 to the present. Major themes include the process of the spread of Islam to African societies, most importantly the interplay between Islam and African traditional religions and customs and the emergence of local African Muslim cultures. We also examine the development and dynamics of Sufism in Africa, Muslim responses to European colonial domination, questions of gender, Christian – Muslim encounters, and expressions of art, music and popular culture. In addition, we draw attention to a variety of current issues relating to Islam in contemporary Africa, including the development of reformist, revivalist and jihadi movements such as Boko Haram (Nigeria) and al-Shabaab (Somalia) and their ideologies.

Prerequisites & Notes: Junior or senior status; or instructor permission.
Credits: 5
Grade Mode: Letter
GUR Attributes: ACGM