ARTH 236 - Science, Technology, and Magic in Islamic Art

FC ARHU CD

4 credits
Wonder–the experience of surprise mingled with curiosity, confusion, and even discomfort–unites the realms of science, technology, and magic in Islamic art. In this course, we explore wondrous objects such as moving and speaking mechanical devices, talismans, and amulets to call on supernatural powers, astrolabes and other scientific instruments, and manuscripts of the occult sciences, all of which emerged across Islamic cultural spheres in the Mediterranean, Middle East, and Central and South Asia from 650 to 1500 CE. Field trip(s) required.

Prerequisites: one 100-level course.