ANTH 211 - Muslims in a Hindu World: Islam in India

In contemporary India, Muslim communities adhere to a wide range of beliefs and sometimes perform very different rituals as part of their daily religious practice. Religion then is both a source of debate and a common ground for Muslim communities in India. This course explores the similarities and differences among India’s Muslim communities by focusing on the movements that brought Islam to India, religious practices, and women’s approaches to the veil and purdah. The course will then turn to examine contemporary issues relating to pluralism, including religious conflicts between Hindu and Muslims, issues of religious authority and reform movements, and debates about secularism. Course materials will include writings by scholars and activists short stories, poetry, and film. No prior coursework on South Asia or Islam is required.

Credits: 3