H28.0732 Lecture 4 Credits
Instructor(s): Edward Ziter
Throughout the Middle East, the performing arts play a key role in interpreting and shaping popular identities, describing the past, and imagining the future. While there is a popular perception in the U.S. that public opinion throughout the regions is monolithic and Arab censorship is unassailable, many film and theatre practitioners have presented daring examinations of subjects ranging from religious revivalism, family law, homosexuality, and gender relations, often in the context of broad issues of human rights. This class examines these issues through theatre and film, with special focus on works from Syria, Egypt, and Israel. We will also examine traditional performance forms ranging from the dance and storytelling to marketplace behavior.
Additional class time is necessary for film viewing.
