The rule of the Ottoman Empire, one of the longest-lasting empires in world history, transformed large areas of Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. The wealth of Constantinople (known now as Istanbul and the capital of modern-day Turkey) was legendary and its location played a central role in east-west cultural and economic exchange. Still, Turkey bridges the continents of Europe and Asia and continues to maintain a major presence in Middle East affairs. This course examines the vibrant culture and arts that exists throughout Turkey: from the extensive archaeological legacy that is still visible in the landscape of Turkey from Ottoman Empire era mosques to inspiring palaces to ancient ruins steeped in legends, to the famous covered bazaars, textiles, and ceramics, as well as cultural performances of dance, poetry, and culinary adventures. This is a class that immerses you inside the heart and soul of Turkey to go beyond the headlines of war in the Middle East, and to get a cultural pulse of how history is still very much a part of and alive in contemporary Turkish society and identity. 

Weekly Topical Themes to Explore include History (the formation of Turkish society, state, and citizens in pre-Islamic, Islamic (Ottoman) and modern Turkey) within the context of literary traditions (Turkish folk literature including poetry, storytelling, and contemporary works)