Introduction to Islamic Poetry

Course Overview

This course explores the rich culture of pre -Islamic and Islamic poetry. Dating back to pre-Islamic Arabia, poetry is one of the oldest and most esteemed forms of expression in the Islamic world.

The course is designed to give insight on the impact and influence of Arabic poetry upon the understanding of the Qur’an and hadith as well as to help appreciate the rich cultural legacy of it. A brief history of the Arabic language is given as well as the role of poetry within Arab society throughout time and how it changed. Several specific poets and their works are discussed in detail from each period. Various literary techniques in Arabic are elaborated upon and common misconceptions and misunderstandings are clarified. The usage of poetry and literary techniques in understanding Islamic texts is also detailed.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion, students should be able to:

• understand the importance of poetry as an aid to assist us in understanding the Quran
• appreciate the importance of poetry in helping us to understand the culture of the people of the time
• explore the distinct literary style of the pre-Islamic and Islamic poetry
• understand the centrality of poetry throughout Islamic civilisation
• appreciate key contributions to pre-Islamic poetry and Islamic poetry