History 173 - Medievl/Early Mod S Asia

(Offered as HIST 173 [AS^P] and ASLC 173 [SA].) This course presents an introduction to major themes and developments in medieval and early modern South Asian history with a particular emphasis on the emergence and flourishing of Islamic regimes in the sub-continent.  Commencing with the rise of Islam in South Asia, the course explores the evolutions of the Delhi Sultanates, syncretistic cults and sects, the Vijayanagara Empire, and the Mughal Empire, as well as the relationships between politics, religion, literature, art, and trade under these formations.  Readings are drawn from both primary and secondary sources.  The course aims at providing a broad overview of six centuries of sub-continental history, coupled with closer attention to select themes.  Challenging both colonialist and early nationalist views of this vast period as one of stagnation and tyranny, the course seeks to demonstrate the vitality and dynamism that characterized these centuries of the second millennium. Two class meetings per week.

Fall semester.  Professor Sen.