Latest Module Specifications
Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Description The purpose of this module is to introduce learners to Islam as a religious, social, literary and historical phenomenon. The module will explore the historical foundations of Islam and some of its most important subsequent developments. It will survey the major practices and beliefs of Islam through a close reading of key selections from the primary sources of Islamic religious literature. In this module students will develop knowledge of Islam in particular and develop a range of critical and analytical skills. Although the major focus of this module is Islam as lived and experienced by Muslims, some attention will also be given to issues relating the representation of Muslims by non-Muslims, especially in the contemporary period. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate an ability to problematize the designation religion with particular reference to Islam 2. Display a broad knowledge of the historical formation and development of Islam and Islamic civilization 3. Demonstrate specialist knowledge of a number of key Islamic texts and their roles as sources of authority In Islam 4. Describe in detail a range of Islamic practices, beliefs and cultural complexes 5. Identify key critical issues in Islamic Studies and the Study of Islam | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Indicative Content and Learning Activities
Introduction to the Module – Defining Islam and Islam as “Religion” Arabia and the Near East before Islam The Life and Career of the Prophet Muhammad Sources of Islam: the Qur’an Sources of Islam: the Hadith Islamic Practices: the Five Pillars of Islam Islamic Beliefs: the Six Articles of Faith The Spectrum of Islamic Belief: Sunni, Shi‘i, Khariji and Sufi Muslim Feasts and Festivals The Islamic Encounter with Modernity Islamic Cultural Complexes and Muslim Identity Construction and perceptions of Muslims and Islam by non-Muslims Tendencies in contemporary Islamic thought | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Indicative Reading List Books:
Articles: None | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Other Resources None | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||