The rationale for introducing a new module is to offer students the possibility to choose a new subject not previously taught at UL. The purpose of the module is to provide students with a general overview of the History of the Middle East from the age of the Prophet in the 7th century to the 21st century highlighting historical events and trends that may help them to better understand current socio-political events in the region that impact the wider world.

Course Content: This module provides a foundational overview of the history of the Middle East and its relationship with Europe from the emergence of Islam in the 7th century to the contemporary era including the recent struggle against ISIS and the self-proclaimed Caliphate.During the twelve weeks we will explore the emergence of Islam as a religion and the political institutions that were created with its expansion throughout the region and beyond. We will focus on chronology but also on themes, such as the development of science, technology, social life, religion and politics. Moving forward in time, we will discuss the transitional period towards modernity and its meaning, the increasing foreign presence and what this meant for the region and the creation of the modern Middle East following the end of the First World War. The last few classes will explore some of the contemporary events with the purpose to use previous history in order to shed light on current matters. The topics discussed will include: definition of the Middle East; Muhammad and the Rise of Islam; Institutions of Government and Religion; Culture and Society; Regionalisation vs. Centralisation of political authority; Islam in Europe; The rise of the Gunpowder Empires 1500-2000; The age of Reforms; The First World War in the Middle East and Colonialism; Nationalism and its 'Others'; Independence and Revolution; The Middle East and Europe in the contemporary World.

Upon completion of the this module, students should be able to: - Identify the key historiographical trends and methodological issues related to the study of the Middle East with a special attention to Orientalism - Recognise the complex historical development of the Middle East and the ways the region was understood in Europe - discover the range of stereotypes that emerged as a result of the distorted historiographies - illustrate how Europe came to dominate and reshape the Middle East - generate opinions based on historical knowledge

This module will provide students with the tools to understand the development of the rather complex relation between Europe and the Middle East. On completion of the module students will: - acknowledge different cultures and historical paths - be able to dispute common stereotypes related to the region - have the capacity to question beliefs and values built upon historical misunderstandings

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Teaching is varied and interactive, based on 12 modules that include lectures, group work, discussion, student presentations and analyses of primary sources.