NELC0680 - Civilizations at Odds? The United States and the Middle East

Status
A
Activity
LEC
Section number integer
401
Title (text only)
Civilizations at Odds? The United States and the Middle East
Term
2024A
Subject area
NELC
Section number only
401
Section ID
NELC0680401
Course number integer
680
Meeting times
TR 1:45 PM-3:14 PM
Meeting location
MCNB 285
Level
undergraduate
Instructors
Firoozeh Kashani-Sabet
Description
America has often been depicted in the Middle East either as a benevolent superpower or an ill-meaning enemy – in other words, foe or friend, Satan or saint. In America, too, stereotypes of the Middle East abound as home to the uber-wealthy, tyrants, and fanatics. This course will explore the relationship between the United States and the Middle East by moving beyond such facile depictions. We will read works of history and political analysis to shape our understanding of this relationship and to explore cross-cultural perspectives. Our goal is to understand why a century of interaction has sometimes done little to bring peace and greater understanding between these two intertwined communities. By reading a range of historical accounts, we will consider the origins of this cultural and diplomatic encounter. The readings will shed light on the extent of America’s involvement in the Middle East in the twentieth century. We will consider the impact of oil diplomacy on U.S.-Middle East relations, as well as the role of ideology and culture, in an effort to comprehend the antagonism that exists on a state-to-state level in some contexts. Most importantly, we will grapple with the ways in which international politics disrupts the lives of citizens trapped in the throes of political turmoil.
Course number only
0680
Cross listings
HIST1788401
Use local description
No