An introduction to the history of medieval Islamic societies, from the rise of Islam up to 1500 AD. It will follow the major political events in the history of the Muslim community and explore the development of key religious trends, cultural concepts and social institutions. The module will highlight the range of literary, artistic and scientific achievements of medieval Islamic civilizations. By using critical historical tools for examination of the Islamic past, it will seek to draw a multi-dimensional picture of complex and dynamic societies. Students will reflect on the religious, cultural, and social history of Islamic societies, and analyse traditional and modern narratives of Islamic history.
Course Content
8 LESSONS
8 HOURS Total Length
Lesson 1
Emergence of Islam in Arabia: 610 – 632
60 minutes
Lesson 2
The Arab Conquests and the Umayyads: 632–750
60 minutes
Lesson 3
The Abbasids: 750–950
60 minutes
Lesson 4
Slave Military Elites: 1000–1500
60 minutes
Lesson 5
The Ottomans and the Safavids: 1500–1800
60 minutes
Lesson 6
Sufism and the Mystical Tradition in Islam
60 minutes
Lesson 7
Women in Early Islam
60 minutes
Lesson 8
Non-Muslims Under Islam
60 minutes
Key Skills
Critical Thinking
Source Analysis
Essay Writing
Historical Analysis
Educator
Laurence A
Primary Educator
As a qualified teacher, Laurence uses his wealth of classroom experience and resources to lead primary-aged students through their learning using appropriate scaffolding and challenges.