Historical Perspectives

Compare aspects of Middle Eastern culture before and after the advent of Islam with modules produced by scholars at the University of Chicago.

The Question of Identity: Ethnicity, Language, Religion, and Gender

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The Overview module illuminates the early history of ancient Middle Eastern identities that were formed upon the basis of age and gender, tribal membership, language spoken or the cities in which they lived. Then, compare and contrast the concept of identity within the unitary society of ancient Egypt and the multi-ethnic society of ancient Mesopotamia.

In Diversity and Pluralism, understand how the Middle East's ethnic and religious makeup raises interesting questions regarding national and religious identities. Finally, explore the anthropological Concept of Ethnicity as a means of understanding modern Middle Eastern history, politics, and social organization.

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