Course Overview

This free 10-week course will delve into the profound role of translated Arabic literature in fostering a connection between Arab and Western cultures, aiming to transcend stereotypes and Orientalism. Over ten weeks, the seminar will examine the evolution of the translation movement for Arabic literary texts, probing the barriers that hinder the rightful recognition of Arabic literature in the broader literary canon. The curriculum is designed to assess how translated Arabic literature can contribute to enriching Arab cultural identity, countering historical stereotypes rooted in the Western consciousness. 

Emphasizing the bridging of ages and cultures, the course explores seminal works like The Arabian Nights and Kalila Wa Dimnah while also delving into modern themes such as the intersection of Arabic literature and ecofeminism, and contemporary Arabic exile literature. Through engaging debates and readings, students are invited to cultivate a nuanced understanding of the challenges, controversies, and transformative potential inherent in the translation and reception of Arabic literary texts, ultimately fostering a meaningful connection between Arab and Western societies through the powerful medium of literature.