This course explores Iranian history, society, and culture from the point of view of the social sciences, supplemented by insights provided through fiction and film. Course content focuses on political, social, and cultural change from the Safavid era until today. Topics include tribal society, rural society, urban life, and their interactions; social structures; Iranian identity; gender; minority groups; language; the environment; religious beliefs and rituals; and political movements. The class will pay particular attention to how Iranian society and culture have been studied, by whom, and how these have changed over time.
Course Credits
3