Voracious reading is the minimum requirement for a competent historian. The two texts are sufficient for a general knowledge of Arab history. The recommended books are not necessary to pass the course, but will enrich your understanding of Arab civilization. You are urged to follow current events in the Arab world by reading at least one newspaper during the course.
Required Books
· Hitti, Philip K. (2002; 10th edition). History of the Arabs. Palgrave Macmillan. ISBN-10: 0333631420 and 13: 978-0333631423
I have reverted to this book, in print since 1937, and now in its tenth edition, because it gives better coverage to the pre-Islamic period, to Arab culture, and to the many “minor” dynasties than the book previously used, although it is, frankly, duller reading. It also makes it possible to reduce the total required books to two, and thus the price of the course.
· Lewis, Bernard. What Went Wrong. New York: Oxford University Press, 2002. ISBN 0-19-514420-1
Traditionally, I have concentrated the third assignment on the Arab-Israeli conflict, but current events provokes a change to one that asks you to assess, as the title of the third course book asks, What Went Wrong? Why are some Arab Muslims so militant and angry?