Faculty of Arts & Science
2016-2017 Calendar

Near and Middle Eastern Civilizations

Faculty


Professors Emeriti
E. Birnbaum, BA, Dipl OAS
P.E. Dion, L Th, L SS, Ph D
L.V. Golombek, MA, Ph D, FRSC (ROM)
A.K. Grayson, MA, Ph D, FRSC
J.S. Holladay, BS, BD, Th D
A. Jwaideh, MA, B Litt, D Phil
A. Pietersma, BA, BD, Ph D
D.B. Redford, MA, Ph D, FRSC
E.J. Revell, MA, Ph D, FRSC (V)
R.M. Savory, MA, Ph D, FRSC (T)
R.F.G. Sweet, MA, Ph D

Associate Professors Emeriti
J.R. Blackburn, MA, Ph D
H. Dajani-Shakeel, MA, Ph D
L. Garshowitz, MA, Ph D
E.J. Keall, BA, Ph D (ROM)
R. Sandler, MA, Ph D
B.T. Lawson, MA, Ph D

Senior Lecturer Emeritus
R.T. Lutz, MA

Professor and Chair
T.P. Harrison, MA, Ph D

Professors
P-A. Beaulieu, MA, Ph D
A. Harrak, MA, Ph D
R.D. Holmstedt, MA, Ph D
R.J. Leprohon, MA, Ph D
J.A. Reilly, MA, Ph D
M.E. Subtelny, BA, Ph D
M. Tavakoli-Targhi, MA, Ph D (UTM)

Associate Professors
M. Brosius, D Phil
H. Fox, MS, Ph D
K. Goebs, MA, Ph D
K.A. Grzymski, MA, Ph D (ROM)
J.P. Hanssen, D Phil (UTM)
R. Mason, MA, Ph D (ROM)
T. Meacham, MA, Ph D
S. Metso, MA, Ph D
A. Mittermaier, MA, Ph D
N. Moumtaz, Ph D
L. Northrup, MA, Ph D
V. Ostapchuk, BA, Ph D
A. Porter, Ph D
M. Pouls Wegner, BA, Ph D
E. Raffaelli, MA, Ph D (UTM)
F. Ragheb, Ph D
K. Ruerhdanz, Ph D (ROM)
W. Saleh, MA, Ph D (U), Distinguished Professor of Islam
Y. Vevaina, Ph D

Assistant Professors
J. Miller, MA, Ph D
C. Reichel, MA, Ph D (ROM)
H. Baker, MA, Ph D

Associate Professors, Teaching Stream
A.K. Ali, MA, Ph D
A. Taleghani, MA, Ph D (UTM)

The Department of Near and Middle Eastern Civilizations is concerned with the interdisciplinary study of the civilizations and cultures of the Near and Middle East from Neolithic times until the present, including their archaeology, history, mythology, religion and thought, art and architecture, and languages and literatures (Akkadian, Babylonian, Sumerian, ancient Egyptian, Coptic, Aramaic, Syriac, Hebrew, Arabic, Persian and Turkish). The Department’s programs provide students with a unique opportunity to study non-Western complex societies and civilizations.


The Near East is generally understood to refer to the region at the eastern end of the Mediterranean and beyond, from ancient times up to the advent of Islam in the seventh century CE. The Middle East begins with the advent of Islam and refers to a much broader geographical area whose predominant Islamic culture in medieval and modern times has stretched to North Africa and Spain in the west and to Central Asia, India, and Southeast Asia in the east.

The Department welcomes students of all academic backgrounds who wish to learn about the Near and Middle East. NMC101H1, NMC102H1 and NMC104H1 introduce students to the ancient Near East, including ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Israel, while NMC103H1 introduces students to the Islamic world. Students pursuing a Specialist or Major program are required to take two of these Gateway courses and are given the option to enrol in one of four streams: an open stream, an ancient stream, a medieval stream, or a modern stream.


Many courses offered in the Department do not require any knowledge of the languages of the region. However, the Department strongly believes that a deeper understanding of the civilizations and cultures of the Near and Middle East can be achieved through the study of one or more of its languages. In fact, admission to a graduate program in NMC requires the applicant to have acquired a background in the relevant languages. For more detailed information about programs and courses offered in a particular year, students should consult the Department’s web site: www.nmc.utoronto.ca.


Undergraduate Enquiries: 4 Bancroft Avenue, Room 200 (nmc@utoronto.ca) or Prof. Robert Holmstedt, undergraduate coordinator (nmc.ug@utoronto.ca)

Near and Middle Eastern Civilizations Programs

Near and Middle Eastern Civilizations Specialist (General) (Arts program)

(11 FCEs, including at least 4 300+ FCEs, 1 FCE of which must be at the 400-level.)

At least 9 FCEs must be NMC and/or NML courses. Others may be taken only from a list of pre-approved courses offered by other departments.

1. First Year: 1 FCE from NMC101H1/NMC102H1/NMC103H1/NMC104H1

2. 4 FCEs in one or two primary source languages (Akkadian, Ancient Egyptian, Biblical, Middle, or Modern Hebrew, Aramaic, Syriac, Arabic, Persian, Turkish), with NML designator (i.e., not literature in translation). It is recommended that language instruction begin in first year if possible. 

3. Higher years:

3 FCEs from NMC241H1, NMC245H1, NMC254H1, NMC270H1, NMC273Y1, NMC274Y1, NMC275H1, NMC277H1, NMC278H1, NMC342H1, NMC343H1, NMC344H1, NMC346H1, NMC347H1, NMC348Y1, NMC349H1, NMC355H1, NMC356H1, NMC370H1, NMC373H1, NMC374H1, NMC376H1, NMC377Y1, NMC378H1, NMC446H1, NMC447H1, NMC448H1, NMC449H1, NMC451H1, NMC471H1, NMC472H1, NMC473H1, NMC475H1, NMC476H1, NMC477H1, NMC478H1, NMC479H1 (History & Society courses) and NMC247H1, NMC283Y1, NMC284H1, NMC285H1, NMC286H1, NMC289H1, NMC380H1, NMC381H1, NMC382Y1, NMC384H1, NMC385H1, NMC387H1, NMC388H1, NMC389H1, NMC481H1, NMC484H1 (Religion & Thought courses).

2 FCEs from NMC260H1, NMC261Y0, NMC262H1, NMC360H1, NMC361H1, NMC362Y1, NMC363H1, NMC364H1, NMC365Y1, NMC366Y1, NMC367H1, NMC368H1, NMC369Y1, NMC461Y1, NMC462Y1, NMC463H1, NMC465H1, NMC466H1, NMC467H1, NMC468H1, NMC469Y1 (Archaeology courses) and NMC246H1, NMC251H1, NMC252H1, NMC253H1, NMC255H1, NMC256H1, NMC257H1, NMC258H1, NMC259H1, NMC315H1, NMC350H1, NMC351H1, NMC353H1, NMC392H1, NMC393H1, NMC394H1, NMC396Y1, NMC450H1, NMC491H1 (Art, Architecture, & Literature courses). 

1 additional FCE of NMC or NML courses or those from a list of pre-approved courses offered by other departments.

Near and Middle Eastern Civilizations Specialist (Ancient) (Arts program)

(11 FCEs, including at least 4 300+ FCEs, 1 FCE of which must be at the 400-level.)

At least 9 FCEs must be NMC and/or NML courses. Others may be taken only from a list of pre-approved courses offered by other departments.

1. First Year: 1 FCE from NMC101H1/NMC102H1/NMC103H1/NMC104H1.

2. 4 FCEs in one or two primary source languages (Akkadian, Ancient Egyptian, Biblical, Middle, or Modern Hebrew, Aramaic, Syriac, Arabic, Persian, Turkish), with NML designator (i.e., not literature in translation). It is recommended that language instruction begin in first year if possible. 2a. The 4 FCEs in primary source languages must be from among the following languages: Akkadian, Ancient Egyptian, Biblical or Middle Hebrew, Aramaic, Syriac.

3. Higher years:

3 FCEs from NMC245H1, NMC247H1, NMC254H1, NMC270H1, NMC277H1, NMC343H1, NMC344H1, NMC346H1, NMC347H1, NMC349H1, NMC370H1, NMC446H1, NMC447H1, NMC448H1, NMC449H1, NMC472H1 (History & Society courses) and NMC289H1, NMC380H1, NMC382Y1 (Religion & Thought courses).

2 FCEs from NMC260H1, NMC261Y0, NMC262H1, NMC360H1, NMC361H1, NMC362Y1, NMC363H1, NMC364H1, NMC366Y1, NMC369Y1, NMC461Y1, NMC462Y1, NMC463H1, NMC465H1, NMC466H1, NMC467H1, NMC468H1 (Archaeology courses) and NMC246H1, NMC251H1, NMC252H1, NMC253H1, NMC351H1, NMC450H1, NMC491H1 (Art, Architecture, & Literature courses).

4. 1 additional FCE in Medieval or Modern stream courses or those from a list of pre-approved courses offered by other departments.

Near and Middle Eastern Civilizations Specialist (Medieval) (Arts program)

(11 FCEs, including at least 4 300+ FCEs, 1 FCE of which must be at the 400-level.)

At least 9 FCEs must be NMC and/or NML courses. Others may be taken only from a list of pre-approved courses offered by other departments.

1. First Year: 1 FCE from NMC101H1/NMC102H1/NMC103H1/NMC104H1.

2. 4 FCEs in one or two primary source languages (Akkadian, Ancient Egyptian, Biblical, Middle, or Modern Hebrew, Aramaic, Syriac, Arabic, Persian, Turkish), with NML designator (i.e., not literature in translation). It is recommended that language instruction begin in first year if possible. The 4 FCEs in primary source languages must be from among the following languages: Biblical or Middle Hebrew, Aramaic, Syriac, Arabic, Persian, Turkish.

3. Higher years:

3 FCEs from NMC270H1, NMC273Y1, NMC274Y1, NMC275H1, NMC277H1, NMC342H1, NMC348Y1, NMC374H1, NMC376H1, NMC377Y1, NMC471H1, NMC472H1 (History & Society courses) and NMC283Y1, NMC285H1, NMC286H1, NMC289H1, NMC384H1, NMC385H1, NMC387H1, NMC388H1, NMC389H1, NMC481H1, NMC484H1 (Religion & Thought courses).

2 FCEs from NMC261Y0, NMC365Y1, NMC366Y1, NMC367H1, NMC369Y1, NMC462Y1, NMC465H1, NMC469Y1 (Archaeology courses) and NMC255H1, NMC256H1, NMC258H1, NMC350H1, NMC353H1, NMC393H1, NMC394H1, NMC396Y1 (Art, Architecture, & Literature courses).

4. 1 additional FCE in Ancient or Modern stream courses or those from a list of pre-approved courses offered by other departments.

Near and Middle Eastern Civilizations Specialist (Modern) (Arts program)

(11 FCEs, including at least 4 300+ FCEs, 1 FCE of which must be at the 400-level.)

At least 9 FCEs must be NMC and/or NML courses. Others may be taken only from a list of pre-approved courses offered by other departments.

1. First Year: 1 FCE from NMC101H1/NMC102H1/NMC103H1/NMC104H1.

2. 4 FCEs in one or two primary source languages (Akkadian, Ancient Egyptian, Biblical, Middle, or Modern Hebrew, Aramaic, Syriac, Arabic, Persian, Turkish), with NML designator (i.e., not literature in translation). It is recommended that language instruction begin in first year if possible. The 4 FCEs in primary source languages must be from among the following languages: Modern Hebrew, Arabic, Persian, Turkish.

3. Higher years:

3 FCEs from NMC241H1, NMC270H1, NMC274Y1, NMC277H1, NMC278H1, NMC348Y1, NMC355H1, NMC356H1, NMC373H1, NMC374H1, NMC377Y1, NMC378H1, NMC451H1, NMC472H1, NMC473H1, NMC475H1, NMC476H1, NMC477H1, NMC478H1, NMC479H1 (History & Society courses) and NMC283Y1, NMC284H1, NMC285H1, NMC286H1, NMC289H1, NMC381H1, NMC384H1, NMC385H1, NMC387H1, NMC389H1, NMC481H1, NMC484H1 (Religion & Thought courses).

2 FCEs from NMC261Y0, NMC367H1, NMC368H1, NMC369Y1, NMC462Y1, NMC465H1 (Archaeology courses) and NMC257H1, NMC259H1, NMC315H1, NMC392H1, NMC394H1, NMC396Y1 (Art, Architecture, & Literature courses).

4. 1 additional FCE in Ancient or Medieval stream courses or those from a list of pre-approved courses offered by other departments.

Near and Middle Eastern Civilizations Major (General) (Arts program)

(6 FCEs including at least 2 300+-level FCEs, 1 FCE of which must be at the 400-level)

At least 5 FCEs must be NMC and/or NML courses. 1 FCE may be taken from a list of pre-approved courses offered by other departments.

1. First Year: 1 FCE from NMC101H1/NMC102H1/NMC103H1/NMC104H1.

2. Higher years:

3 to 4 FCEs from any NMC courses. 

1 to 2 FCEs FCEs in language (NML courses)

Near and Middle Eastern Civilization Major (Medieval) (Arts program)

(6 FCEs including at least 2 300+-level FCEs, 1 FCE of which must be at the 400-level)

At least 5 FCEs must be NMC and/or NML courses. 1 FCE may be taken from a list of pre-approved courses offered by other departments.

1. First Year: 1 FCE from NMC101H1/NMC102H1/NMC103H1/NMC104H1.

2. Higher years:

2 to 3 FCEs from Group B and 1 FCE from Group A/Group C.

1 to 2 FCEs in Medieval Stream languages (Biblical, Middle Hebrew, Aramaic, Syriac, Arabic, Persian, Turkish).

Near and Middle Eastern Civilizations Major (Ancient) (Arts program)

(6 FCEs including at least 2 300+-level FCEs, 1 FCE of which must be at the 400-level)

At least 5 FCEs must be NMC and/or NML courses. 1 FCE may be taken from a list of pre-approved courses offered by other departments.

1. First Year: 1 FCE from NMC101H1/NMC102H1/NMC103H1/NMC104H1.

2. Higher years:

2 to 3 FCEs from Group A and 1 FCE from Group B/Group C.

1 to 2 FCEs in Ancient Stream languages (Akkadian, Ancient Egyptian, Biblical or Middle Hebrew, Aramaic, Syriac)

Near and Middle Eastern Civilizations Major (Modern) (Arts program)

(6 FCEs including at least 2 300+-level FCEs, 1 FCE of which must be at the 400-level)

At least 5 FCEs must be NMC and/or NML courses. 1 FCE may be taken from a list of pre-approved courses offered by other departments.

1. First Year: 1 FCE from NMC101H1/NMC102H1/NMC103H1/NMC104H1.

2. Higher years:

2 to 3 FCEs from Group C and 1 FCE from Group A/Group B.

1 to 2 FCEs in Modern Stream languages (Modern Hebrew, Arabic, Persian, Turkish).


Near and Middle Eastern Civilizations Course Groups

Group A (Ancient Stream)

NMC245H1, NMC246H1, NMC247H1, NMC251H1, NMC252H1, NMC253H1, NMC254H1, NMC260H1, NMC261Y0, NMC262H1, NMC270H1, NMC277H1, NMC289H1, NMC299Y1, NMC343H1, NMC344H1, NMC346H1, NMC347H1, NMC349H1, NMC351H1, NMC360H1, NMC361H1, NMC362Y1, NMC363H1, NMC364H1, NMC366Y1, NMC369Y1, NMC370H1, NMC380H1, NMC382Y1, NMC399Y0, NMC446H1, NMC447H1, NMC448H1, NMC449H1, NMC450H1, NMC461Y1, NMC462Y1, NMC463H1, NMC465H1, NMC466H1, NMC467H1, NMC468H1, NMC472H1, NMC491H1, NMC495Y1, NMC496H1, NMC497H1, NMC499Y1

Group B (Medieval Stream)

NMC255H1, NMC256H1, NMC258H1, NMC261Y0, NMC270H1, NMC273Y1, NMC274Y1, NMC275H1, NMC277H1, NMC283Y1, NMC285H1, NMC286H1, NMC289H1, NMC299Y1, NMC342H1, NMC348Y1, NMC350H1, NMC353H1, NMC365Y1, NMC366Y1, NMC367H1, NMC369Y1, NMC374H1, NMC376H1, NMC377Y1, NMC384H1, NMC385H1, NMC387H1, NMC388H1, NMC389H1, NMC393H1, NMC394H1, NMC396Y1, NMC399Y0, NMC462Y1, NMC465H1, NMC469Y1, NMC471H1, NMC472H1, NMC481H1, NMC484H1, NMC495Y1, NMC496H1, NMC497H1, NMC499Y1

Group C (Modern Stream)

NMC241H1, NMC257H1, NMC259H1, NMC261Y0, NMC270H1, NMC274Y1, NMC277H1, NMC278H1, NMC283Y1, NMC284H1, NMC285H1, NMC286H1, NMC289H1, NMC299Y1, NMC315H1, NMC348Y1, NMC355H1, NMC356H1, NMC367H1, NMC368H1, NMC369Y1, NMC373H1, NMC374H1, NMC377Y1, NMC378H1, NMC381H1, NMC384H1, NMC385H1, NMC387H1, NMC389H1, NMC392H1, NMC394H1, NMC396Y1, NMC399Y0, NMC451H1, NMC462Y1, NMC465H1, NMC472H1, NMC473H1, NMC475H1, NMC476H1, NMC477H1, NMC478H1, NMC479H1, NMC481H1, NMC484H1, NMC495Y1, NMC496H1, NMC497H1, NMC499Y1

Near and Middle Eastern Civilizations Minor (Arts program)

Four FCEs, including at least one 300+ series course. All four must be NMC and/or NML courses.


Faculty of Arts & Science Language Citation

 

The Department of Near & Middle Eastern Civilizations participates in the Faculty of Arts & Science’s Language Citation initiative.

The study of Ancient languages is a demanding and intellectually rewarding educational experience that makes available to the modern student the rich resources of classical texts in the original languages. The “living” languages offered by NMC provide invaluable insights into the varieties of human culture and expression and offer myriad directions in which to take the study of a foreign language.

Successful study of these languages demonstrates intelligence, discipline, analytical sophistication, and an excellent memory. In each language the Language Citation recognizes a significant level of achievement in language study with a high level of academic success.

For details on the languages available for Citation and detailed requirements, contact the department directly.

Students should note that the Language Citation is not equivalent to an academic program and that enrolment in a program is not necessary in order to earn the recognition bestowed by the Citation.

Near and Middle Eastern Civilizations Courses


First Year Seminars

The 199Y1 and 199H1 seminars are designed to provide the opportunity to work closely with an instructor in a class of no more than twenty-four students. These interactive seminars are intended to stimulate the students’ curiosity and provide an opportunity to get to know a member of the professorial staff in a seminar environment during the first year of study. Details can be found at www.artsci.utoronto.ca/current/course/fyh-1/.


Gateway Courses

These courses are designed to introduce students to the major civilizations and cultures of the Near and Middle East, ancient, medieval, and modern, and to present students with the range of possibilities for further study in their chosen areas of interest.


NMC101H1    Near and Middle Eastern Civilizations I: Land of the Pharaohs [24L/12T]

The course traces the history of ancient Egypt from the foundation of the Egyptian state around 3050 BCE to its incorporation into the Roman Empire. The focus is on various aspects of Egyptian culture, including the institution of kingship, the role of women, and the peculiarities of Egyptian art, literature, and religion. Emphasis is placed on the methods by which knowledge about this ancient civilization can be obtained.

Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC102H1    Near and Middle Eastern Civilizations II: Heartland of Ancient Empires[24L/12T]

The history of ancient Near Eastern peoples and empires, particularly those centered in Mesopotamia. The origins and role of writing systems in the development of civilization. The cultural contributions of the Sumerians, Assyrians, Babylonians, ancient Israelites, Persians, and others, in the areas of law, administration, science, art and architecture, religion, and literature.

Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC103H1    Near and Middle Eastern Civilizations III: The Islamic World [24L/12T]

An introduction to the history, lands, peoples, religions, and cultures that came under the influence of Islam and in turn, contributed to the formation of Islamic civilization. Topics covered include an overview of the geographical and ethno-linguistic scope of the Islamic world, the role of the Qur’an and Arabic language, the major Islamic empires, the production and transmission of knowledge, law and society, literary and artistic expressions, and modern developments.

Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC104H1    Near and MIddle Eastern Civilizations IV: The Biblical World[24L/12T]

An introduction to the history, lands, peoples, religions, literatures and cultures that produced the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament. Topics to be covered include an overview of the geography and history of Ancient Israel and Judea, the role of the Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek languages, the literary genres reflected in biblical and some contemporary non-biblical texts, and the scholarly methods by which the Bible is studied.

Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

Culture and Civilization Courses
NMC241H1    Anthropology of the Middle East[24L]

This course offers an introduction to the contemporary Middle East from an anthropological perspective. Topics will include gender, kinship, religion, modernity, popular culture, and the study of everyday life.

Exclusion: RLG355H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC245H1    Women in the Ancient Near East[24L]

The course examines written and archaeological sources to discuss the status and role of women in the ancient Near East, focusing in particular on the first millennium BCE.

Recommended Preparation: NMC101H1, NMC102H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC246H1    Sumerian and Babylonian Literature in Translation[24L]

Survey of the literature produced in ancient Mesopotamia in the Sumerian and Akkadian languages. Discussion of all genres, including epics, myths, lyrical poetry, hymns, wisdom literature, humorous tales, fables and proverbs. Particular emphasis on major texts such as the Epic of Gilgamesh and the Babylonian Epic of Creation.  

Recommended Preparation: NMC102H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC247H1    The Intellectual History of the Ancient Near East[24L]

Survey of the intellectual life in the Ancient Near East from the emergence of writing in Mesopotamia and Egypt at the end of the third millennium BCE until the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Covers issues of orality vs. literacy, state and scribal control, notions of progress, origins and purpose of knowledge, as well asareas such as taxonomy of the natural world, astronomy, mathematics, medicine, divination.

Recommended Preparation: NMC101H1, NMC102H1, or NMC104H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC251H1    Voices from Egypt: Pharaonic Cultural Texts[24L]

Introduction to various genres of Egyptian texts, with a focus on those writings that provide information about aspects of funerary/religious beliefs and ritual, of history, politics and institutions, and of the Egyptian quest for knowledge of the world, as evinced in astronomical, medical, and mathematical sources. Literary texts will be treated in so far as they relate to the listed topics. No knowledge of the ancient Egyptian language(s) is required; all texts to be read in translation. 

Recommended Preparation: NMC101H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NMC252H1    Hebrew Bible[24L]

An introduction to the critical study of the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament and the related literature of ancient Jewish communities (Apocrypha, Pseudepigrapha, Dead Sea Scrolls). English translations used; no knowledge of Hebrew is required. (Offered alternate years)

Recommended Preparation: NMC104H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NMC253H1    Egyptian Myths[48L/24P]

Overview of Egyptian mythical writings, starting with the myths contained in the Pyramid Texts of the 3rd Millennium BCE and ending with the narrative mythical tales of the later 2nd and 1st Millennium BCE and beyond. Definitions and historical developments will be discussed. No knowledge of the ancient Egyptian language(s) is required; all texts to be read in translation.

Recommended Preparation: NMC101H1, NMC343H1, NMC344H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NMC254H1    The Mummy: Technology and Transformation[24L]

This course explores the significance of mummies in contexts ranging from ancient Egyptian to modern, tracing the development of Egyptian mummification techniques and the roles and uses of mummies as transformative elements allowing access to the afterlife, sources of information about ancient individuals, characters in literature and film, and objects for display in museums.

Recommended Preparation: NMC101H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

NMC255H1    Arabic Literary Classics[12L]

Introduction to premodern Arabic literature in English translation.  Readings include: narrative works such as 1001 Nights, Kalila wa-Dimna, al-Hamadhani’s maqamat, Ibn Hazm’s love treatise The Ring of the Dove; poems by Labid, Jarir, Abu Nuwas, al-Mutanabbi, and Ibn Nubata; and an obscene shadow play by Ibn Daniyal.

Recommended Preparation: NMC103H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NMC256H1    1001 Nights Around the World[24L]

Surveys the history of the 1001 Nights and its stories, from early manuscripts to modern adaptations, including film, theatre, novels, and short stories produced around the world. We read in English translation an early manuscript of the Nights, and then consider the politics and aesthetics of medieval and modern adaptations. 

Recommended Preparation: NMC103H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NMC257H1     Modern Turkish Literature[24L]

An introduction to the history and culture of modern Turkey through readings of modern Turkish literature in translation. Topics such as cultural revolution, migration, identity and gender, production and transmission of literature in today's literary market will be discussed. Readings will include a variety of genres, notably the short story, poetry, and the novel.

Recommended Preparation: NMC103H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NMC258H1    The Book of Kings: Persian Myth, History, and Art[24L]

The Persian Book of Kings, or Shahnameh, composed in the 11th century by Ferdowsi, is the most important book in Iranian national culture and one of the great works of world literature. The course examines the book’s presentation of the history of the pre-Islamic kings of Iran, the exploits of Iran’s heroes, and the myths and legends of ancient Iran, which were frequently illustrated in manuscript copies over the centuries.

Recommended Preparation: NMC103H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NMC259H1    Survey of Modern Hebrew Literature[24L]

An overview of modern Hebrew literature in English translation, from its self-conscious 19th century beginning in Eastern Europe to its scathing and irreverent postmodern works in contemporary Israel. We will explore the special richness of this literature in its formation of individual versus collective identity and in themes of nativity and exile.

Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NMC260H1    The Archaeology of the Pre- and Protohistoric Civilizations of the Near East[36L]

A general introduction of the archaeology of the Ancient Near East from the Prehistoric to the end of the Early Bronze Age (ca. 2000 BC), covering the regions of Anatolia, Syria-Palestine, Iran, and the high civilizations of Mesopotamia and Egypt. Emphasis will be on culture history, while exploring the complex processes of social organization and change.

Recommended Preparation: NMC101H1, NMC102H1, NMC103H1, or NMC104H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC261Y0    Field Archaeology[TBA]

Participation for 4 - 7 weeks during the summer in an approved archaeological excavation in the eastern Mediterranean/Middle East. This experience is then critiqued in a previously assigned essay researched and written under guidance upon return. Departmental permission is required in December-February prior to the fieldwork. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.

Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NMC262H1    The Archaeology of the Civilizations of the Historic Periods of the Near East

A general introduction of the archaeology of the historic periods of the Ancient Near East from the Middle Bronze Age (ca. 2000 BC) to the Persian Period, covering the regions of Anatolia, Syria-Palestine, Iran, and the high civilizations of Mesopotamia and Egypt. Emphasis will be placed on culture history, while exploring the complex processes of social organization and change.

Recommended Preparation: NMC260H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC270H1    Christians of the Middle East[24L]

The course will introduce students to the Christian communities living in the Middle East since the distant past, identified by ecclesiastical and or ethnic terms, including Armenian, Copt, Greek-Melkite, Maronite, and Syriac. The course will discuss the plurality of their cultural, literary, and theological traditions, the social and intellectual roles of their monasteries, the contributions of their top religious authorities in diplomacy between Byzantium and the Sassanians, their position in the Islamic world and contributions to Islamic culture, philosophy, sciences, and theology, interreligious dialogues and polemics with Islam. (Offered in alternate years)

Recommended Preparation: NMC102H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC273Y1    Early Islamic History: The Prophet and the Caliphates[72L]

Features of the pre-Islamic Middle East inherited by Islamic civilization, birth of Islam, life and times of Muhammad, formation of Islamic empire and civilization, political disintegration of the caliphate, emergence of autonomous dynasties, the fall of Baghdad to Mongols in 1258 and the rise of the Mamluks.

Recommended Preparation: NMC103H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC274H1    The Steppe Frontier in Eurasian and Islamic History (formerly NMC274Y1) [24L]

A survey of the role of pastoral nomads in the formation and destruction of empires in Central Asia, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East from the Scythians and Huns to the Arabs and Turks (8th century BC to 1200 AD).

Exclusion: NMC274Y1
Recommended Preparation: NMC103H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC275H1    The Mongol Empire and the World It Made (formerly NMC274Y1) [24L]

The rise of the Mongols and creation of their world empire and its role in the making of the modern world. Political, military, cultural, and economic aspects of the formation and disintegration of the largest land empire in world history (1200-1800).

Exclusion: NMC274Y1
Recommended Preparation: NMC103H1, NMC274H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC277H1    Topics in Near & Middle Eastern Civilizations[TBA]

Topics vary from year to year, depending on instructor.

Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: None

NMC278H1    Introduction to the Modern Middle East[36L]

Historical survey of the principal countries of the Middle East in the 19th and 20th centuries. Themes include the interplay of imperial and local interests, the emergence of national movements, and the formation of modern states.

Recommended Preparation: NMC103H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC283Y1    Islam: Religion and Civilization [48L]

The period of time covered by the course is from shortly before the birth of Islam in the 7th century to the present: God, Prophethood, Holy Book, Community, the Individual, the Shari‘a,  the mystical tradition, art and science, social institutions, family life, women in Islam, modernity and the impact of the West. Lectures, assignments and workshops will be framed by the close identification between “religion” and “civilization”.

Exclusion: RLG204Y1
Recommended Preparation: NMC103H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NMC284H1    Judaism and Feminism[24L]

Explores the interaction between Jewish religious and secular movements and feminism. Investigates Jewish law (halakha) and the Jewish legal (halakhic) process in terms of feminist critique. Marriage, divorce, Torah study, bat mitzvah, other ceremonies, female rabbinic ordination and womens prayer groups are some of the topics considered. (Offered in alternate years)

Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

NMC285H1    The Quran: Spirit and Form[24L]

Concern is mainly with the sacred character of the Quran (koran), its preeminence in Islam. Topics include: the idea of the sacred book, the Quran and the Bible, the influence of the Quran on Islamic spirituality, literature, theology, law, philosophy, and the various apporaches taken in interpreting the Quran. Knowledge of Arabic is not required. (Offered in alternate years)

Exclusion: RLG351H1
Recommended Preparation: NMC283Y1 / RLG204Y1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

NMC286H1    The Quran: Reading and Transformation[24L]

This course is a continuation of NMC285H1. Students will be required to engage directly with the text in English or French translation, to discuss and write on major and minor quranic topics and themes and to study the works of other astute readers of the text. Arabic is not required or expected.

Exclusion: NMC285H1/RLG351H1
Recommended Preparation: NMC283Y1/NMC285H1/RLG204Y1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

NMC289H1    Introduction to Coptic Studies[24L]

Overview of the history of the Copts from political, religious, social and economic perspectives. Literary and documentary sources will illustrate these different aspects of Coptic Civilization. The focus on Coptic Monasticism will underline the role of monasteries as conservers of the Coptic Orthodox Church tradition.

Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

NMC342H1    History & Sources of Egyptian Monasticism[24L]

Presents an historical overview on the origins of Egyptian monasticism based on written sources. Comparison of written sources with archaeological artifacts reveals the relation between spiritual and material aspects of monastic life. Literary sources produced for different monastic orders -- such as sermons, canons and biographies -- will be studied.

Recommended Preparation: NMC289H1/NMC368H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC343H1    History of Ancient Egypt I: Predynastic Period to Middle Kingdom [24L]

The political and cultural history of Egypt from the later predynastic period through the Middle Kingdom; the use of both archaeological and literary evidence.  

Prerequisite: NMC101H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC344H1    History of Ancient Egypt II: Second Intermediate Period to Greco-Roman Period[24L]

The political and cultural history of Egypt from the Second Intermediate Period through the Middle Greco-Roman Period; the use of both archaeological and literary evidence.

Prerequisite: NMC101H1
Recommended Preparation: NMC343H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC346H1    Ancient Mesopotamia I: Sumerians and Akkadians [24L]

The political and cultural history of the peoples of ancient South-Western Asia from 3000 BCE to the destruction of Babylon by the Hittites ca. 1600 BCE. (Offered in alternate years)

Prerequisite: NMC102H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC347H1    Ancient Mesopotamia II: Assyrians and Babylonians [24L]

The political and cultural history of the peoples of ancient South-Western Asia from ca. 1600 BCE to the conquest of Babylon by Alexander the Great in 331 BCE (Offered in alternate years)

Prerequisite: NMC102H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC348Y1    History of Iran from the Sasanians to the Safavids[48L]

The political and cultural history of Iran from Late Antiquity through the Arab conquests of the 7th–8th centuries, the rise of native Iranian dynasties in the 10th century, the domination of greater Iran by Turkic and Turko-Mongolian dynasties from the 11th century onwards, and the emergence of the Safavid state in the 16th century, a watershed in the political and religious history of pre-modern Iran. (Offered in alternate years.)

Prerequisite: NMC103H1
Recommended Preparation: NMC273Y1, NMC274Y1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC349H1    The First World Empire: Achaemenid Persia [24L]

The history and culture of the Achaemenid empire, from its emergence out of the former Elamite kingdom and its rise under Cyrus II in 559 BCE to the reign of Darius III and its fall in 330 BCE. The Persian idea of court and kingship, religion, and organization of the empire will also be investigated.

Prerequisite: NMC102H1
Recommended Preparation: NMC101H1, NMC247H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC350H1    Christian Literature from the Middle East in Translation[24L]

Survey of various literary genres from works produced by Armenian, Coptic, Maronite, Melkite, and Syriac authors between the 3rd and the 19th centuries CE. Genres include theology in poetry, biblical commentaries, historiography and chronicles, hagiography, songs and epics, apologetics, and travel accounts.

Prerequisite: NMC270H1
Recommended Preparation: NMC102H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NMC351H1    Dead Sea Scrolls[24L]

This course provides an examination of the historical and cultural context in which the Dead Sea Scrolls were authored and copied, the types of writings included in the Scrolls, and the ancient Jewish groups behind these texts. It also discusses the significance of the Scrolls for understanding the textual development of the Hebrew Bible, ancient scriptural interpretation, and the thought world of the Jews during the period that gave birth to both Rabbinic Judaism and early Christianity. No knowledge of Hebrew or Aramaic is required. (Offered alternate years)

Prerequisite: NMC104H1
Recommended Preparation: NMC252H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NMC355H1    The Ottoman Empire in the Age of Reform, 1808-1918[24L]

The last phase of the Ottoman empire has long been viewed by Orientalists and Middle East nationalists as a period of inevitable decline. More recently, cultural historians of the Middle East have framed the long 19th. century as a period of grand reforms - or Tanzimat. This course seeks to critically examine the notions of reform of the state and reform of the individual between Sultan Mahmud IIs accession and the defeat of the Ottoman empire in World War I. Focusing largely on Istanbul and the Ottoman capitals political relations with the Arab provinces, we will relate economic, social and intellectual transformations to state laws and policies, Mediterranean capitalism and the rise of sectarianism and nationalism in the Middle East.

Recommended Preparation: NMC278H1, NMC377Y1, NMC378H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC356H1    Anthropology of Islam[24L]

Combines theoretical reflections on an anthropology of Islam with ethnographic readings on Muslim practices in communities around the world.

Exclusion: RLG355H1
Recommended Preparation: NMC241H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities or Social Science
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC360H1    Archaeology of the Biblical World I: The Bronze Age[24L]

The archaeology of Syria-Palestine from prehistoric times until the end of the Late Bronze Age (ca. 1200 BCE), with a special emphasis on the development of complex society, and inter-relations with the neighboring regions of Egypt and Syro-Mesopotamia. Attention will also be given to the history of archaeological research in the region, current field techniques and methods of archaeological analysis, and the relationship between archaeological evidence and contemporary written records, including the Hebrew Bible. (Offered in alternate years)

Prerequisite: NMC260H1, NMC262H1
Recommended Preparation: NMC102H1, NMC104H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NMC361H1    The Archaeology of the Biblical World II: The Iron Age [24L]

The archaeology of Syria-Palestine from the collapse of the Late Bronze Age until the Persian Period, with a special emphasis on the emergence of Israel and the small territorial nation-states of the eastern Mediterranean seaboard. Particular attention will be given to the relationship between the archaeological evidence and contemporary written records, including the Hebrew Bible. (Offered in alternate years)

Prerequisite: NMC260H1, NMC262H1
Recommended Preparation: NMC102H1, NMC104H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NMC362Y1    Ancient Egyptian Sites [48L]

Detailed examination of significant sites for the understanding of ancient Egyptian cultural development, encompassing the study of spatial organization, architecture, artifactual material, and archaeological evidence from each site. (Offered in alternate years)

Prerequisite: NMC343H1 and NMC344H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1) + Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC363H1    The Archaeology of Mesopotamia I 8000-2000 BC [36L]

Comprehensive survey class on the origins of complex societies, urbanism and early states in Mesopotamia from the Neolithic period to the end of the Early Bronze Age. Covers the archaeology and material culture of Iraq and surrounding regions (western Iran, eastern Syria, southeastern Turkey).

Prerequisite: NMC260H1, NMC262H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NMC364H1    The Archaeology of Mesopotamia II 2000-330 BC [36L]

Comprehensive survey class on the state societies of Babylon, Assur, and Elam during the second millennium BC and on the emergence and manifestation of world empires (Assyria, Persia) in the first millennium BC. Covers the archaeology and material culture of Iraq and surrounding regions (western Iran, eastern Syria, southeastern Turkey).

Prerequisite: NMC260H1, NMC262H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NMC365Y1    Archaeology of the Islamic World[48L]

A survey of Islamic archaeology, covering the rise of Islam from 7th century to the end of the Fatimid period in 1171, examining sites in the Middle East, North Africa and Andalusia through the archaeological record, artifacts evidencing history, art history, urbanism and socio-ecology of early Muslim communities.

Prerequisite: NMC103H1
Recommended Preparation: NMC260H1, NMC262H1, NMC273Y1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1) + Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC366Y1    Archaeology from Alexander to Muhammad[48L]

An overview of late antique Greek, Arab and Persian material culture, as seen through the archaeological record of Syria, Iraq, and Iran.

Prerequisite: NMC101H1, NMC102H1, NMC103H1
Recommended Preparation: NMC260H1, NMC262H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1) + Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC367H1    Archaeology & Architecture of Egyptian Monasticism[24L]

Underlines the role of some Egyptian monasteries as active institutions carrying out numerous economic activities, and reveals the forces that enabled their survival and changing function. Exploration of these rich sites of cultural exchange, as manifested in their architecture and religious art and written material.

Recommended Preparation: NMC260H1, NMC262H1, NMC342H1, NMC368H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NMC368H1    Coptic Art & Archaeology[24L]

A survey of Coptic art, archaeology and architecture. The course will cover aspects of the religious, civil and daily life of the Copts: their houses, religious architecture, funerary monuments, art and artefacts

Recommended Preparation: NMC260H1, NMC262H1, NMC289H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NMC369Y1    Archaeological Materials and Industries[72L]

Materials and technology help define the cultures and civilizations that use them, especially for archaeologists. Focusing on the Near and Middle East, this course is aimed at promoting understanding of the nature of materials used by the peoples of the region from the earliest prehistory until recent times. This course has a hands-on emphasis. (Offered in alternate years)

Prerequisite: NMC101H1 or NMC102H1
Recommended Preparation: NMC260H1, NMC262H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1) + Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC370H1    Ancient Israel [24L]

The political and cultural history of ancient Israel from the origin of the Hebrews to the exile and restoration in the Persian period. (Offered every 3 years)

Prerequisite: NMC104H1, NMC252H1
Recommended Preparation: NMC101H1, NMC102H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC373H1    Iran in the 20th Century [24L]

Situated within a world historical context, this course offers a critical history of modern Iran from the establishment of the Safavid Empire in 1501 to the Islamic Revolution of 1979. While focusing on institutional and political reforms and revolutions, it also explains the making of modern Iranian political, literary, and visual cultures.

Prerequisite: NMC103H1
Exclusion: NMC451H1 may not be taken in the same year
Recommended Preparation: NMC278H1, NMC348Y1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC374H1    History of Islamic Egypt[24L]

A survey of the history of Egypt under Islamic rule from the Arab to the Ottoman conquest (1517 C.E.), including the Fatimid, Ayyubid and Mamluk dynasties. Issues treated thematically include conversion and inter-communal relations, relations with Syria, militarization of the political structure, including the military slave (mamluk) institution, religious currents, the impact of the Crusades and Mongol invasions, commercial and diplomatic relations, the emergence of Cairo as the centre of the later mediaeval western Islamic world. (Offered every 3 years)

Prerequisite: NMC273Y1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC376H1    History of Islamic Spain and North Africa (640-1492)[24L]

Muslim conquest of North Africa and Spain, history of Spain under Muslim rule to 1492. Attention given to institutional and cultural development, Islamic Spains relations with the Islamic east and neighbours in Europe. (Offered every 3 years)

Prerequisite: NMC273Y1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC377Y1    The Ottoman Empire to 1800 [48L]

A survey of the Ottoman Empire from its late 13th/early 14th century origins as a border principality through the classical age of Mehmed the Conqueror and Süleyman the Magnificent when as a mature Islamic Empire it ruled lands in Europe, Asia, and Africa, to the internal and external challenges faced by the empire during the 17th and 18th centuries when it underwent substantial transformation. Coverage includes topics in Ottoman institutions, economy, society, and culture. (Offered in alternate years)

Prerequisite: NMC273Y1
Exclusion: NMC377H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC378H1    Modern Arab History[36L]

A thematic treatment of the Arab lands of the Middle East and North Africa from 1700 onward, focusing on the Ottoman and colonial periods.

Prerequisite: NMC278H1 and permission of instructor
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC380H1    Religion and Myth in the Ancient Near East [72L]

The ancient religions of the ancient Near East are interesting for the profound insights their myths enshrine, and for the impact they had on Judaism, Christianity and Islam, as well as on Greek literature. This course will give equal attention to the religions of Mesopotamia (Sumerian, Assyro-Babylonian), and to those of Syria (especially Ugarit). (Offered in alternate years)

Prerequisite: NMC102H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

NMC381H1    Modern Islamic Thought[24L]

Survey of major intellectual trends in the Islamic tradition, particularly those identified with Middle Eastern Muslim thinkers, from the early 19th century to the present. Topics include reformism, modernism, hermeneutics, feminism, Islamism, and liberal and progressive trends in contemporary Muslim thought. Readings in English translation.

Prerequisite: NMC103H1
Recommended Preparation: NMC278H1, NMC283Y1, RLG204Y1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

NMC382Y1    Mummies, Myth and Magic: The Religion of Ancient Egypt[72L]

Religious belief and practice in ancient Egypt. The course will focus on gods and mythology, which will be studied through primary sources in translation. (Offered in alternate years)

Prerequisite: NMC101H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

NMC384H1    Life Cycle and Personal Status in Judaism[24L]

Jewish attitudes to various personal status issues, such as the foetus, the minor, the pubescent child, and the mentally and physically challenged adult from biblical and rabbinic sources to modern Jewish positions. (Offered in alternate years)

Recommended Preparation: NMC104H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

NMC385H1    Introduction to Islamic Law[24L]

The course surveys the history, theory, and doctrines of Islamic law, and addresses issues that are at the center of public debate  across the world. Students will closely read primary sources, provide oral and written responses, and reflect on their own positionality viz debates on Islamic law. The course introduces students to the dynamics of Islamic legal reasoning in a historical and comparative perspective.

Prerequisite: NMC283Y1/RLG204Y1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

NMC387H1    Islamic Mystical Tradition[24L]

Mysticism and spirituality in Islam: the Quran; doctrine; prayer; Sufism; Irfan (Shii mysticism). Themes include love, knowledge, authority, being, interpretation.

Prerequisite: NMC283Y1/RLG204Y1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

NMC388H1    Shii Islam I[24L]

Subjects covered include the rise and development of the Shii version of Islamic orthodoxy from the mid-7th to the mid-13th centuries CE. Distinctive Shii interpretations of the Quran will be examined.

Prerequisite: NMC283Y1/RLG204Y1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

NMC389H1    Shii Islam II[24L]

This course continues the study of Shiism from 1258 to the present day and will include the history and teachings of the various members of the Shii family of Islamic religion.

Prerequisite: NMC283Y1/RLG204Y1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

NMC392H1    The Taj Mahal and Its Origins[24L]

Monumental architecture, whether for secular or religious purposes, played a special role in Muslim societies, particularly in major centres such as Isfahan, Samarkand and Delhi. Beginning with the Taj Mahal (1632) the best-known elements of Islamic architecture the double dome, the pointed arch, glazed tiles are traced retroactively in Iran, Central Asia, and India, and their social context is studied. (Offered every three years)

Prerequisite: One full course in pre-modern history of the Muslim world or Islamic art/material culture; or one full course in pre-modern art history (FAH)
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NMC393H1    Early Islamic Art & Architectures[24L]

A survey of the arts of the Islamic world from the 7th century to the Mongol conquest in the mid-13th century. Studying objects in the ROM collections of Islamic art.

Prerequisite: One full course from FAH or NMC in medieval art/history/culture
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NMC394H1    Persianate Art & Architecture[24L]

A continuation of NMC393H1, covering art and material culture in the eastern Islamic lands from the late 13th century CE to the modern period. Studying objects in the ROM collections of Islamic art..

Prerequisite: One full course from FAH or NMC in medieval art/history/culture
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC396Y1    The Islamic City[24L]

Architectural studies, historical sources and archaeological research are used to examine the physical and social morphology of the pre-industrial Islamic city from Central Asia to North Africa and Spain, from the 7th to the 17th centuries.

Prerequisite: One full course in Near Eastern/Islamic art and/or material culture
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC446H1    The Babylonian City [24L]

The course uses written and archaeological evidence to examine the physical form of the Babylonian city in the first millennium BC as the setting for the daily activities of its inhabitants.

Prerequisite: NMC102H1, NMC346H1/NMC347H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC447H1    The Neo-Assyrian Empire [24L]

The course studies Assyrian kingship, imperial administration, and daily life as reflected in the royal inscriptions, official correspondence, and everyday documents.

Prerequisite: NMC102H1, NMC346H1/NMC347H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC448H1    Alexander and Iran[24S]

The history of Persia after the fall of the first Persian empire and its conquest by Alexander the Great in 330 BC. We will discuss the problems of the Greek-Macedonian conquest of Iran and the impact Hellenism had on Iran and the emerging Bactrian kingdom, as well as the different ways Alexander was regarded in the early islamic traditions. 

Prerequisite: NMC102H1
Recommended Preparation: NMC247H1, NMC349H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC449H1    Mesopotamian Society and Economy[24L]

The course examines Mesopotamian society and economy from the third millennium BC to the first millennium BC using everyday cuneiform documents in translation. It focuses on the key institutions (palace, temple, private household) and traces their changing organisation and economic role over the course of Mesopotamian history.

Prerequisite: NMC102H1
Recommended Preparation: NMC346H1/NMC347H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC450H1    Research Seminar on Ancient Jewish Literature[24S]

A seminar focusing on the critical analysis of the Hebrew Bible and related ancient Jewish texts. Literary genre and critical topics will vary according to instructor’s research interests. Focus will be given to developing research skills by working with accepted critical methodologies. Not eligible for CR/NCR option. (Offered every 3 years)

Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor is required.
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NMC451H1    Iranian Constitutional Revolution[24S]

Explores competing narratives of the Constitutional Revolution (19061911), particularly the transformation of public and private spheres and their corresponding modes of collective and personal self-presentation. Students explore revolutionary legacies, and the ways in which competing political, religious and ideological forces have attempted to shape the Revolutions memory. (Offered in alternate years)

Prerequisite: NMC278H1/NMC348Y1/NMC373H1
Exclusion: NMC373H1 may not be taken in the same year
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC461Y1    Problems in the Archaeology of the Ancient Near East[36S]

Problems in the Archaeology of the Ancient Near East

Prerequisite: 1.5 FCE from NMC360H1/NMC361H1/NMC362Y1/NMC363H1/NMC364H1/NMC465H1/NMC466H1; 1.0 FCE from NMC343H1/NMC344H1/NMC346H1/NMC347H1/NMC370H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1) + Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC462Y1    Polarized-light Microscopy in Archaeology[72P]

The use of polarized-light microscopy in the examination of ceramics, stone, other materials, and microstratigraphy. Lectures in elementary optical mineralogy and case-studies are followed by lab sessions in which typical thin-sections of pottery, rocks, soils and other materials are studied. (Offered in alternate years)

Prerequisite: NMC369Y1
Distribution Requirement Status: Social Science
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1) + The Physical and Mathematical Universes (5)

NMC463H1    Warfare—the Archaeology of Conflict in the Ancient Near East[36S]

A seminar on warfare in the ancient Near East (10,000 – 333 BC) using archaeological data and historical sources. Topic to be covered include origins of conflict, armies and weapons, siege techniques, urban combat, and of war.

Prerequisite: NMC260Y
Recommended Preparation: NMC102H, NMC363H
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC465H1    Ceramic Analysis [6P/24S]

A survey of methods of classification and analysis (form, fabric and style) involved in the study of archaeological ceramics, and the use of ceramics to infer patterns of production, distribution, and social organization; linking research questions with appropriate analytical techniques.

Prerequisite: ARH312Y1/NMC360H1/NMC361H1/NMC369Y1
Distribution Requirement Status: Social Science
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NMC466H1    Near Eastern Ceramics [6P/24S]

An introduction to the basic corpus of Near Eastern ceramics, from the invention of pottery production in the Neolithic until the Persian period, utilizing existing collections at the University and in the Royal Ontario Museum.

Prerequisite: NMC260H1, NMC262H1, NMC465H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NMC467H1    Seminar in Egyptian Archaeology I[12S]

Seminar focuses on the social and cultural development of Egypt from the Predynastic Period through the Middle Kingdom, engaging with major theories regarding social complexity, state formation, urbanism, social organization, and regionalism.  An independent research project and hands-on experience with artifacts at the ROM are important features of the course. (Offered every 3 years.)

Prerequisite: NMC362Y1, NMC343H1, NMC344H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NMC468H1    Seminar in Egyptian Archaeology II[12S]

Seminar focuses on the social and cultural development of Egypt from the  Middle Kingdom through the Ptolemaic Period, engaging with major theories regarding urbanism, ethnicity, core-periphery relationships, cultural interaction, and social organization.  An independent research project and hands-on experience with artifacts at the ROM are important features of the course. (Offered every 3 years.)

Prerequisite: NMC362Y1, NMC343H1, NMC344H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NMC469Y1    Mediaeval Middle Eastern Ceramics[72S]

An introduction to the ceramics of the Middle or Near East from the time of Alexander until recent times. A particular emphasis will be the elite glazed wares of the mediaeval and Islamic periods. Apart from providing a history of the production of ceramics and their social and archaeological context, this course is intended to train archaeologists and art-historians in the fundamental field recognition and identification of the various types and their production origins, and the course will rely heavily on the collections of the ROM.

Prerequisite: NMC260H1, NMC262H1, and at least one other upper-level course in archaeological materials
Recommended Preparation: NMC369Y1, NMC465H1, NMC365Y1, NMC366Y1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1) + Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC471H1    Advanced Topics in Near and Middle Eastern Civilizations[24S]

An advanced seminar organized around readings on a topic selected by the instructor. (Offered every 3 years)

Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC472H1    Theory & Method in Middle East Studies[24S]

Examines current theoretical and methodological trends in the study of the Near/Middle East. A seminar course, it consists of presentations, discussions, lectures, guest speakers, and documentaries. No previous knowledge of methodology required. Special attention will be paid to the politics, culture, political economy, gender, and ethics of various research practices. Intended for 4th year students only.

Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC473H1    Intellectuals of the Modern Arab World[24S]

The course is designed to re-examine the role of intellectuals in the Arab world and political events that shaped their thinking. It introduces the life and thought of some leading thinkers of the Arab world and relates their thought to the lived experience of political, social, economic and cultural change in the Middle East. Intended for upper year students. (Offered in alternate years)

Prerequisite: NML410Y1 or fluency in Arabic and 1 FCE from NMC278H1, NMC377Y1, NMC378H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC475H1    Orientalism & Occidentalism[24S]

This course probes the contemporaneous formation of modern Oriental Studies in Europe and the emergence of discourses on Europe (Ifranj/Farang) in the Middle East from the eighteenth century to the present. Special emphasis will be devoted to encounters between scholars in Western Europe, Iran, India, and the Ottoman Empire. This seminar-style course explains that Orientals gazed and returned the gaze, and in the process of cultural looking, they, like their Occidental counterparts, exoticized and eroticized the Farangi-Other. In the interplay of looks between Orientals and Occidentals, there was no steady position of spectatorship, no objective observer, and no aperspectival position. Intended for upper year students.

Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor.
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC476H1    Politics of Archaeology in the Modern Middle East[24S]

This course examines the role nineteenth and twentieth-century archaeology played in Middle Eastern politics, the culture of colonialism and in nationalist struggles. The course will first familiarize the students with the diplomatic and intellectual context of the formation of archaeology as a field of study in Europe and analyse the role archaeology played in the production of knowledge about the Middle East. Next, the course will examine the archaeological practices on the ground (and underground) and inquire what happens in the contact zone between foreign and local archaeologists. Finally, we will trace the ways in which emergent nationalist discourse challenge, appropriate and imitate the historical narratives of Western archaeology.

Prerequisite: Permission of instructor is required.
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC477H1    Modern Turkey [24L]

This seminar examines the history and politics of Turkey since 1923.  It explores issues such as the Ottoman roots of Turkey’s early leadership, the establishment of the republic, Ataturk’s reforms and legacy, internal political and social transformations, and the country’s changing geopolitical role.  The course also explores some aspects of Turkish literature and culture.  No knowledge of Turkish is required.

Prerequisite: NMC278H1
Recommended Preparation: NMC274Y1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC478H1    Modern Arab Societies [24S]

A seminar built around thematic readings of social and economic history of the modern Arab world. Offered every other year.

Prerequisite: NMC378H1 and permission of instructor
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC479H1    Nationalism in the Arab World [24S]

A seminar that critically examines the types and varieties of national expression in Arab societies of the Middle East and North Africa, through a reading of common texts and students' individual research projects. (Offered in alternate years)

Prerequisite: NMC378H1 and permission of instructor
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Society and its Institutions (3)

NMC481H1    Muslim Gnostics and Mystics[24L]

This course will present for study a different prominent figure each year: Hallaj, Ghazali, Suhrawardi, Ibn Arabi, Rumi, Mulla Sadra, and so on. Attention will be given to their respective social and historical milieux, their modes of expression and experience, and the nature of their literary productions. There is no prerequisite, but students must be advanced undergraduates in the Humanities.

Prerequisite: Permission of instructor
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

NMC484H1    Gender-related Topics in Law and Religion[36L]

Abortion, rape, family violence and similar topics from the perspective of historical and legal development, scientific theory, socio-ethical attitudes and anthropological comparison in the Bible and other ancient Near Eastern sources, through Jewish legal texts to modern responses. (Offered in alternate years)

Prerequisite: Permission of instructor
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

NMC491H1    Mesopotamian Material Culture: Art [24S]

This course focuses on a comprehensive introduction and discussion of Mesopotamian artwork from the Neolithic to the Iron Age periods (ca. 6000 - 300 BCE). Following an introduction of major artifact classes (including sculpture, relief, and glyptics [seals and sealings]), students will learn to describe and catalogue works of Mesopotamian art, allowing them to critically use and evaluate primary and secondary publications. Systematic descriptions and labels for key characteristics such as the object materials, size, iconography, genre, style, and theme will be established to show how meaningful artifact typologies can be constructed. The potential as well as limitations of art-historical approaches for archaeological work, especially for the chronology and interpretation of archeological contexts, will be discussed and examined on selected cases. Several classes will be taught at the Royal Ontario Museum to demonstrate the handling and physical analysis of artifacts.

Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

Research Courses
NMC299Y1    Research Opportunity Program

Credit course for supervised participation in faculty research project. Details at http://www.artsci.utoronto.ca/current/course/rop. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.

Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: None

NMC399Y0    Research Excursions

An instructor-supervised group project in an off-campus setting. Details at http://www.artsci.utoronto.ca/current/course/399. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.

Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: None

NMC495Y1    Independent Studies [TBA]

Open only when an NMC full-time faculty member is willing and available to supervise. Student must find an appropriate NMC supervisor for the desired topic and obtain the approval of the departmental Associate Chair/Undergraduate Coordinator. Obtain details and a course form from the Department Undergraduate Administrator. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.

Prerequisite: Permission of Department
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: None

NMC496H1    Independent Studies [TBA]

Open only when an NMC full-time faculty member is willing and available to supervise. Student must find an appropriate NMC supervisor for the desired topic and obtain the approval of the departmental Associate Chair/Undergraduate Coordinator. Obtain details and a course form from the Department Undergraduate Administrator. Not eligible for CR/NCR option. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.

Prerequisite: Permission of Department
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: None

NMC497H1    Independent Studies [TBA]

Open only when an NMC full-time faculty memeber is willing and available to supervise. Student must find an appropriate NMC supervisor for the desired topic and obtain the approval of the departmental Associate Chair/Undergraduate Coordinator. Obtain details and a course form from the Department Undergraduate Administrator. Not eligible for CR/NCR option. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.

Prerequisite: Permission of Department
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: None

NMC499Y1    Senior Thesis[TBA]

A 40-60 page (15,000-20,000 word) research paper (100% of the final mark) written under the supervision of a full-time NMC faculty member.  Not eligible for CR/NCR option.

Prerequisite: 4th year status in NMC Specialist program; supervisor's approval; departmental approval.
Exclusion: NMC495Y1/NMC496H1/NMC497H1 may not be taken in the same session
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: None

Language Courses

Note:

The Department reserves the right to place students in the course level best suited to their linguistic preparation.


NML110Y1    Introductory Standard Arabic[96L/24P]

This course is designed for students with no prior knowledge of Arabic.  It places equal emphasis on the development of all language skills:  reading, writing, listening, and speaking.  The learning philosophy underlying this approach is that proficiency in a foreign language is best achieved through consistent, deliberate, and systematic practice.  From the outset, students are strongly encouraged to develop the habit of consistently practicing learned material.

Prerequisite: Priority enrollment will be given to declared NMC majors/specialists.
Exclusion: Native speakers/NML210Y1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML155H1    Elementary Modern Hebrew I [48L]

See MHB155H1 in Religion.


NML156H1    Elementary Modern Hebrew II [48L]

See MHB156H1 in Religion.


NML210Y1    Intermediate Standard Arabic I (formerly NML211Y)[96L/24P]

This course assumes active knowledge of the content covered in NML110Y.  It places equal emphasis on the development of all language skills.  As the course progresses, students are introduced to the fundamentals of Arabic morphology and syntax.  This is achieved through analysis of texts covering a wide range of topics.  By the end of the course, students are expected to achieve upper intermediate level of proficiency.

Prerequisite: NML110Y1 or permission of the instructor.
Exclusion: Native speaker. Priority enrollment will be given to declared NMC majors/specialists.
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML220Y1    Introductory Aramaic[72S]

Introduction to Aramaic grammar. Readings from biblical Aramaic. (Offered in alternate years)

Prerequisite: NML250Y1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML230H1    Elementary Coptic I [48S]

Introduces the student to the last stage of the Egyptian language, written mostly in Greek characters. The course will first concentrate on the grammar of the language and go on to read short texts.

Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML231H1    Elementary Coptic II[48S]

A continuation of NML230H1.

Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML240Y1    Introduction to Middle Egyptian [72L]

Grammar and reading of selected hieroglyphic texts.

Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML250Y1    Introductory Biblical Hebrew[72S]

An introduction to biblical Hebrew prose. Grammar and selected texts. For students with no previous knowledge of Hebrew.

Exclusion: Those who have completed Grade 8 Hebrew (or Grade 6 in Israel)
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML255H1    Intermediate Modern Hebrew I [48L]

See MHB255H1 in Religion.

Prerequisite: MHB156H1/NML156H1
Exclusion: Those who have completed Grade 8 Hebrew (or Ulpan level 2 in Israel), MHB255H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML256H1    Intermediate Modern Hebrew II[48L]

See MHB256H1 in Religion.

Prerequisite: NML255H1/MHB255H1
Exclusion: Those who have completed Grade 8 Hebrew (or Ulpan level 2 in Israel), MHB256H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML260Y1    Introductory Persian [96L]

The fundamentals of modern standard Persian grammar, with emphasis on attaining fluency in reading and writing simple texts. Also serves as a basis for classical Persian. (Offered in alternate years)

Exclusion: Native users. Priority enrollment will be given to declared NMC majors/specialists
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML270Y1    Introductory Turkish[96L]

This course covers the essentials of Turkish grammar, and introduces students to reading and translation of passages of elementary difficulty. Designed for students with no previous knowledge of Turkish. This course also serves as a basis for the study of Ottoman Turkish and other Turkic languages.

Exclusion: Native speakers
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML305Y1    Introductory Akkadian[48S]

Introduction to Old Babylonian. Grammar and the reading of selected texts. (Offered in alternate years)

Prerequisite: Arabic or Hebrew, normally NML155H1/NML156H1/NML110Y1/NML250Y1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML310Y1    Intermediate Standard Arabic II[96L/24P]

This course assumes active knowledge of the content covered in NML210Y.  As the course progresses, students are introduced to increasingly complex morphological and syntactic patterns of Arabic. This is achieved through analysis of texts covering a wide range of genres. By the end of the course, students are expected to achieve advanced level of proficiency.

Prerequisite: NML210Y1 or permission of the instructor.
Exclusion: Native speakers. Priority enrollment will be given to declared NMC majors/specialists.
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NMC315H1    The Structure of Arabic Language (formerly NML315H1)

This course investigates formal properties of Arabic language.  It provides students with an in-depth knowledge of the grammar of the language focussing on the areas of phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, and the interaction between phonology and morphology.

Prerequisite: NML210Y1 or LIN100Y1, or permission of the instructor
Exclusion: NML315H1
Recommended Preparation: LIN229H1, LIN232H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML320H1    Intermediate Aramaic: Targum [24S]

An intensive study of various Targumim to the Pentateuch: Onkelos, Pseudo-Jonathan, Neophyti, Samaritan and Fragment Targumim. Differences among them in vocabulary, syntax and verb usage are discussed, as well as their relationship to the Palestinian midrashim. (Offered in alternate years)

Prerequisite: NML220Y1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML340Y1    Intermediate Egyptian [72S]

Middle Egyptian texts.

Prerequisite: NML240Y1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML350H1    Intermediate Biblical Hebrew I[24S]

A continuation of the study of ancient Hebrew grammar and texts. Focus is given to covering a wide variety of genres, e.g., narrative, chronicle, genealogy, oracle, prayer, hymn, and proverb.

Prerequisite: NML250Y1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML351H1    Intermediate Biblical Hebrew II[24S]

A continuation of the study of ancient Hebrew grammar and texts. Focus is given to covering a wide variety of genres, e.g., narrative, chronicle, genealogy, oracle, prayer, hymn, and proverb.

Prerequisite: NML350H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NMC352H1    Ancient Egyptian Literature[24L]

Exploration of a variety of different genres of ancient Egyptian literary texts, including wisdom literature, poetry, literary narratives, and mythical tales. Questions of how best to define literature, as well as its historical development in pharaonic Egypt will be discussed. No knowledge of the ancient Egyptian language(s) is required; all texts to be read in translation.

Prerequisite: NMC101H1 and NMC251H1/NMC253H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NMC353H1    Possible Worlds: Speculative Fiction in Arabic Literature[24S]

Arabic speculative fiction from the medieval to the modern period, discussed with attention to early Arabic novel’s adaptation of the medieval maqama genre, and the relation between speculative fiction and political and social critique.  Texts include al-Ma`arri, Ibn Shuhayd, maqamat, al-Muwaylihi, science fiction, and dystopic novels and conceptual art.

Prerequisite: NML110Y1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML355H1    Advanced Modern Hebrew I[48S]

See MHB355H1 in Religion.

Prerequisite: MHB256H1/NML256H1
Exclusion: OAC Hebrew, MHB355H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML356H1    Advanced Modern Hebrew II[48S]

See MHB356H1 in Religion.

Prerequisite: NMLNML355H1/MHB355H1
Exclusion: OAC Hebrew, MHB356H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML357H1    Midrash Aggadah[24S]

An introduction to the exegetical methods of the rabbis in their analysis of biblical texts, with special attention to issues of intertextuality. The textual and thematic topic will vary by year.

Prerequisite: Intermediate Hebrew (Modern or Biblical)
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML358H1    Mishnah and Tosefta [24S]

Introduction to Mishnah and Tosefta, two of the three foundational documents of Middle Hebrew. In addition to studying specific features of this level of Hebrew, examining these compositions independently, and analyzing their interaction, students will examine current scholarly literature on these documents and their relationship to each other. (Offered in alternate years)

Prerequisite: Intermediate Hebrew (Modern or Biblical)
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML359Y1    Babylonian Talmud [48S]

Selections from a tractate in Babylonian Talmud in order to gain facility in the understanding of the dialogic structure of the legal discussions. Practice in the use of classical commentaries and critical aids to allow independent study of the text. (Conducted in Hebrew) (Offered in alternate years)

Prerequisite: Intermediate Hebrew (Modern or Biblical)
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

NML360Y1    Intermediate Persian[144L]

This course involves reading, grammatical analysis, and translation of representative samples of contemporary Persian prose of intermediate difficulty. The reading materials are selected from a wide range of sources in order to ensure balanced, yet comprehensive exposure to the different usage of the language. The course serves as preparation for courses on both classical and contemporary Persian literature.

Exclusion: Native users. Priority enrollment will be given to declared NMC majors/specialists
Recommended Preparation: NML260Y1 and/or adequate knowledge of modern Persian
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML370Y1    Intermediate Turkish [96L]

This course involves reading, grammatical analysis and translation of modern Turkish texts of intermediate difficulty. The reading materials are selected from a wise range of literary genres. Included is a basic review of grammar as well as more advanced grammatical topics. Course serves as preparation for advanced study of Turkish as well as study of Ottoman Turksih language and literature.

Prerequisite: NML270Y1 or permission of instructor.
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML380H1    Introduction to Ge'ez (Classical Ethiopic)[36L]
This course covers the essentials of Ge'ez (Classical Ethiopic) grammar, and introduces students to Ge'ez texts of elementary to intermediate difficulty.
Designed for students with no previous knowledge of Ge'ez.
Prerequisite: NML110Y1/NML220Y1/NML250Y1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML405Y1    Intermediate Akkadian [48S]

(Offered in alternate years)

Prerequisite: NML305Y1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML410Y1    Advanced Standard Arabic[96S]

This course assumes active knowledge of the content covered in NML310Y.  Its goal is to strengthen the students reading and writing skills, refine their knowledge of syntax and morphological patterns, and enrich their cultural background. This is achieved through analysis of sophisticated authentic texts covering a wide range of genres. In addition, Classical Arabic literary texts will be incrementally introduced.  By the end of the course, students are expected to reach a superior level of proficiency.

Prerequisite: NML310Y1 or permission of instructor.
Exclusion: Native speakers.
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML411H1    Media Arabic[24S]

This course familiarizes advanced students of Arabic with structural properties, styles, and discourse features of the language used in the Arabic media.  Class time is devoted to analysis of authentic texts covering a wide range of topics and drawn from various online media outlets.

Prerequisite: NML310Y1 or adequate reading knowledge of Arabic.
Exclusion: Native speakers of Arabic must obtain permission of instructor.
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML412H1    Introduction to Classical Arabic Literary Prose[24L]

This course surveys the rich literary prose tradition in the Arabic language from the Qurʾān to the Mamluk era. Narrative works of a variety of genres will be covered to develop reading skills and grammatical knowledge specific to classical Arabic texts, as well as the ability to analyze literary themes, techniqes, and features.

Prerequisite: NML310Y1 or permission of the instructor
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML413H1    Introduction to Classical Arabic Poetry[24L]

This course covers some of the most famous and frequently quoted poems of the pre-modern Arabic literary tradition, drawing from a wide variety of genres and periods. Arabic prosody will be introduced and students will develop skills in deciphering difficult verse.  Strong grammatical knowledge is presupposed.

Prerequisite: NML310Y1/NML412H1, or permission of the instructor.
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML420Y1    The Jerusalem Talmud: Jewish Western Aramaic [48S]

The Talmud of the Land of Israel, also called Talmud Yerushalmi or Palestinian Talmud, is written in a mixture of Jewish Western Aramaic and Mishnaic Hebrew. It is the principal document of the Land of Israel in Late Antiquity. The course examines the legal argumentation, terminology and language which differ from those of the Babylonian Talmud. (Offered in alternate years)

Prerequisite: Permission of instructor
Recommended Preparation: NML220Y1/NML320H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1) + Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

NML421Y1    Classical Syriac[48S]

This course is primarily a reading course in Syriac literature with reference to specific points in grammar and syntax as contrasted with Aramaic. The texts are read with reference to the history of Syriac literature. (Offered in alternate years)

Prerequisite: NML220Y1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML440H1    Ancient Egyptian Historical Texts [48S]

Texts of significance for the reconstruction and understanding of Egyptian history will be read in the original, and analyzed for content, style, and grammar. The social and archaeological context of these texts will also receive attention.

Prerequisite: NML340Y1 or permission of instructor
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML441H1    Ancient Egyptian Religious and Funerary Texts [48S]

Readings, analysis, and comparisons of selections from the Pyramid Texts, the Coffin Texts, and the New Kingdom mortuary literature; study of cultic, magical, and mythological texts relating to funerary and cultic beliefs and practices.  All texts to be read in the original.

Prerequisite: NML340Y1 or permission of instructor
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML450H1    Advanced Biblical Hebrew[24S]

Continuation of the study of Biblical Hebrew language. Combination of reading more advanced texts and Hebrew composition exercises. Introduction to the standard reference works for advanced study of the phonology, morpholoyg, syntax, and semantics of Biblical Hebrew.

Prerequisite: NML350H1 or NML351H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML451H1    Advanced Babylonian Talmud[24S]

Students will be introduced to the problems of text criticism involving variant readings and the redaction of Talmudic texts. Problems of transmission of the text, its relationship to the Palestinian Talmud, Tosefta and other texts will be explored. Use of Medieval Talmudic commentaries will be addressed.

Prerequisite: Intermediate Hebrew (Modern or Biblical)
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

NML452H1    Halakhic Midrashim [24S]

This course familiarizes students with the methodology and terminology of the two midrashic systems: Devei R. Akiba and Devei R. Ishmael. Sections of all the midrashic halakha (Mekhiltot, Sifra and Sifre) are studied and compared to other Tannaitic materials. (Conducted in Hebrew) (Offered in alternate years)

Prerequisite: Intermediate Hebrew (Modern or Biblical)
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML455H1    Modern Hebrew Poetry[36S]

A study of the poetic works of a major modern Hebrew poet. (Conducted in Hebrew) (Offered in alternate years)

Prerequisite: Permission of instructor
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML456H1    Modern Hebrew Prose[36S]

A study of an important modern writer of Hebrew fiction. (Conducted in Hebrew) (Offered in alternate years)

Prerequisite: Permission of instructor
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

NML459H1    Readings in Second Temple Period Texts[24S]

This course provides an advanced investigation of selected issues in ancient Jewish texts stemming from the Second Temple Period (5th cent. BCE 1st cent. CE), and includes comparative study of biblical writings, apocrypha and pseudepigrapha, the Dead Sea Scrolls, and writings of ancient Jewish historians and philosophers. The specific topic for the course varies from one semester to another. The course has a strong research and writing component.

Prerequisite: NML350H1 or NML351H1. Depending on the specific topic of the semester, knowledge of Greek or Aramaic may be recommended.
Recommended Preparation: NMC252H1, NMC351H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

NML460Y1    Classical Persian Literature [72S]

Survey of Persian literature, chiefly poetry, from the 10th to the 15th centuries, based on selected readings at an advanced level from representative authors, including Rudaki, Nizami, Sadi, Rumi, and Hafiz, as well as from the Persian national epic, Shah-nameh. Introduction to the Persian prosodial system, and analysis of the rhetorical devices and imagery employed by the classical poets Intended for upper year students.

Prerequisite: NML360Y1 or adequate knowledge of classical Persian
Recommended Preparation: NML260Y1 and/or NML360Y1 and/or adequate knowledge of modern and/or classical Persian
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML461H1    Modern Persian Poetry [24S]

A survey of Persian literature, mainly modern poetry from 19th–21st centuries, focusing on linguistics and literary approaches in modern poetry. The course includes detailed discussion of the influence and effect of western and world poetry on Iranian poets, and critical reflections on works of leading contemporary poets.

Prerequisite: NML360Y1 or adequate reading knowledge
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML462H1    Modern Persian Prose [24S]

A survey of modern Persian prose using connected passages of Persian texts.

Prerequisite: NML360Y1 or adequate reading knowledge
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

NML463H1    Structural Development of Iranian Languages[24S]

This interdisciplinary course focuses on the structural development of Iranian Languages, especially Persian language, from Old Persian (551 BC) to Modern Persian (7th century) with the emphasis on the word formation and grammar. This course examines the role of language in maintaining cultural identity and shows the type and the mechanism of the development of a language in general and of Iranian languages in particular.

Prerequisite: NML360Y1 or permission of instructor
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Thought, Belief and Behaviour (2)

NML464H1    Old and Middle Iranian[24L]

An introduction to the Old and Middle Iranian languages, with focus on Avestan and Middle Persian. A brief primer on the principal grammatical features of Avestan and Middle Persian Literature is followed by reading portions of the Avesta and Middle Persian Zoroastrian texts.

Prerequisite: NML360Y1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML470Y1    Advanced Turkish [48S]

Advanced Turkish language practice designed to enable students to pursue independent work in Turkish and Ottoman studies. Differences between modern Turkish and Ottoman grammar will be pointed out. Elements of Arabic and Persian grammar that occur in Ottoman will be presented.

Prerequisite: NML370Y1 or adequate knowledge of Turkish
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

NML471H1     Modern Turkish Literature in Perspective[36L]

This course surveys the main literary currents, figures, major themes, and motifs that define modern Turkish literature. Selected readings, including a variety of genres, such as short story, poetry, and the novel, will be used to map out a possible trajectory of modern Turkish literature, ranging from national allegories that pervaded early Republican Period to postmodern orientations.

Prerequisite: NML370Y1
Recommended Preparation: NMC278H1
Distribution Requirement Status: Humanities
Breadth Requirement: Creative and Cultural Representations (1)

Faculty of Arts & Science Language Citation

The Department of Near and Middle Eastern Civilizations participates in the Faculty of Arts & Science’s Language Citation initiative for Arabic, Persian, ancient Egyptian, Biblical Hebrew, and modern Hebrew.  The study of ancient languages is a demanding and intellectually rewarding experience that makes available to the modern student the rich resources of primary texts in the original languages.  The many languages offered by NMC provide invaluable insights into the varieties of human culture and expression and offer many directions in which to take the study of a foreign language.

Students should note that, as explained in the front of this Calendar under Degree Requirements, the Language Citation is not equivalent to an academic program and that enrollment in a program is not necessary in order to earn the recognition bestowed by the Citation.

The Citation in Biblical Hebrew is available to students who complete NML250Y1 (or the equivalent Prerequisite training) and earn a grade of at least B- in NML350H1, NML351H1 and any 1 FCE of the following: NML450H1, NML459H1 or NMC450H1.

The Citation in ancient Egyptian is available to students who complete NML240Y1 (or the equivalent Prerequisite training) and earn a grade of at least B- in NML340Y1, NML440H1, and NML441H1.

The Citation in Arabic is available to students who complete NML110Y1 (or the equivalent Prerequisite training) and earn a grade of at least B- in NML211Y1 or NML310Y1 and any 1 FCE of the following: NML315H1, NML410Y1, NML411H1, NML412H1, NML413H1.

The Citation in Turkish is available to students who complete NML270Y1 (or the equivalent Prerequisite training) and earn a grade of at least B- in NML370Y1 and NML470Y1.

The Citation in Persian is available to students who complete NML260Y1 (or the equivalent Prerequisite training) and earn a grade of at least B- in NML360Y1 and any 1 FCE of the following: NML460Y1, NML461H1, NML462H1, or NML463H1.

The Citation in modern Hebrew is available to students who complete NML155H1 and NML156H1 (or the equivalent Prerequisite training) and earn a grade of at least B- in NML255H1 and NML256H1 and any 1 FCE of the following: NML355H1, NML356H1, NML357H1, NML358H1, NML359Y1, NML451H1, NML452H1, NML455H1, or NML456H1.