Arabic

Egypt is the most populous country in the Arab world—and its cultural hub. It is a poor, crowded and chaotic country, with exciting ferment in the political, cultural, and religious spheres. Understanding Egypt is one of the keys to understanding the whole region. Students will be exposed to a quasi-democratic country with some of the trappings and rhetoric of democracy but not always its substance, which is currently in a state of enormous flux, and facing critical issues of succession, inclusion, and legitimacy. Students will be exposed to a multifaceted Islam in a variety of settings and manifestations, and to a political and religious discourse that is fascinating and unfamiliar. Most importantly, students will have many opportunities to meet and get to know regular Egyptians and come to understand their concerns, views, and ways of living.