COMP 353
Rhymes, Romance, and Revolution: Arabic Poetry in Translation Spring 2025
Division I W Writing Skills
Cross-listed ARAB 335

Since pre-Islamic times, poetry has been “the record of Arab history,” as an old adage holds. From ancient tribal odes and medieval mystical verse to modern love lyrics, Arabic poetry speaks to how people of the region have lived and interacted. Yet, beyond just recording, poetry has also played a central role in shaping society, culture, and politics in the Arab world. This course introduces students to the poetic tradition(s) of the region, traversing a broad chronology (early Islamic, medieval, modern) to explore such questions as: what are the themes and structures of Arabic poetry? Which elements have changed or persisted over time? And how is it that even classical Arabic poems continue to resonate with younger generations today? We will consider such questions as we read Arabic poems in translation, analyzing how these texts were composed, recited, set to music, and, sometimes, censored or banned by authorities. Students will become familiar with Arabic poetic genres–Classical, Sufi/religious, Diaspora, Free Verse–as well as major poets in the literary tradition. Readings and discussion will be in English. No knowledge of Arabic or poetry required.