This course traces the history of the ottoman empire from its origins as an obscure band of frontier warriors, to the highpoint of its geopolitical power in the sixteenth century, and on to its further evolution as an increasingly complex and peaceful society, down to the opening of the period of European imperialism and nation building. It will address not only the ottomans' political power, but also those economic, social, and cultural factors that helped explain that power and gave the empire such a distinctive place in the history of Western Europe, Balkans and the Middle East.
This course is an introductory survey of world history, by which is meant an overview of major processes and interactions in the development of human society since the development of agriculture some 10,000 years ago. It is a selective overview, emphasizing large-scale patterns and connections in political, social, cultural, technological, and environmental history, yet it also provides balance among regions of the world. It encourages students to apply historical techniques to issues of their own interest.
CERIS will hold the Faculty Reader's Forum on the 19th. This event is open to all educators. At 5:30 we will have dinner in the Greensburg Room (next to the main student dining hall) and then a book discussion on Anthony Shadid’s book House of Stone. The discussion will be facilitated by Dr. Ahmad Khalili, Professor of Sociology at Slippery Rock University. If you which to attend and receive a free copy of the book, please contact Elaine Linn
Set in 12th century Arab-ruled Spanish province Andalusia, famed philosopher Averroes is appointed grand judge by the caliph. The caliph’s political rivals, centered around the leader of a fanatical Islamic sect, force the caliph to send Averroes into exile, but his ideas keep on living.
The CERIS Curriculum Development Grants Program is designed to enable faculty members from CERIS institutions to pursue curricular development and enhancement projects related to Islamic Studies. Islamic Studies is understood, as expressed in the CERIS mission statement, to encompass many languages, literatures, and disciplines; and extends from the 7th century to the present, and across broad geographical areas of the world.
Great tips on research and presentation (useful for participants in CERIS's Undergraduate Research Symposium) at Pitt's Speaking in the Disciplines page.
