Borns Jewish Studies Program

JEWS OF THE MUSLIM EAST surveys the fascinating history and culture of Jews in the Muslim world east of the boundaries of the Ottoman Empire. The course covers the regions of Central Asia, Iran, and Afghanistan under pre-Muslim, Muslim, Russian, and Soviet rule. We explore culture and religion; Jewish practice, thought, and interaction with their Muslim neighbors; legal standing; and language, including the Jewish tendency for multilingualism and the formation of the Jews¿ own unique language.

The themes that will accompany our discussions and assignments throughout the course include exile and displacement, but also preservation; religious survival or collapse; the status of minority communities; tensions over presentation and commemoration, and life in the diaspora.

No textbooks are needed. All readings and other materials will be available on Canvas.