ASIA/CMPL 256: Love in Classical Persian Poetry
In this course, we will examine the binaries of sacred and profane love, transgression and the law, self and the other, human diversity and inclusiveness in Classical Persian poetry. We will explore the intersections of class, gender, sexuality, religion, etc. in the works of Fakhraddin Gorgani (11th century), Nizami Ganjavi (1141-1209), Farid al-Din ‘Attar (1145-1221), Jalal al-Din Rumi (1207-1273), Hafiz Shirazi (1325-1390), and Nur al-Din Abd al-Rahman Jami (1414-1492). We will explore the poems inside their historical, cultural, and social contexts. We will also be reading various secondary materials. In addition, we will be screening videos that will add complexity to our understanding of and offer new perspectives about Persian culture and literature. All readings for this course are in English. LA, CI, WB.