University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 9

Semester: 2

Planned timetable: TBC

The Arts of Islam offers an introduction to the history of art and architecture in the Middle East and Central Asia, from the birth of Islam in the seventh century through to modern times. It is designed to form a strong foundation for further, future engagement with art and architecture of the Islamic world. The module's expansive timeframe and extensive geographical reach will be explored thematically, and topics such as the word, ornament, figural representation and portraiture, courtly life, prophets, modernity and tradition, and death and afterlife will be addressed in their artistic, and further in their social, religious and political contexts. This will frequently involve discussing very different material, such as architecture, painting, and the minor arts in single lectures and seminars. During the module, we shall also consider how the arts of Islamic realms relate to analogous developments in European art, and ask what actually could be Islamic about art.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact:

Scheduled learning hours: 33

Guided independent study hours: 280

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews:

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 100%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 0%

Personnel