Skip to main content
ARA227Arts2 Unitsintermediate

Arabic Literature from Early Islam till End of Umayyad Periods(622-750 ce)

This course introduces students to Arabic literature from the Early Islamic period (622 CE) to the end of the Umayyad period (750 CE). It explores the main issues, themes, and styles of poetry and prose during these formative eras. The course examines the influence of political events, social changes, and religious developments on the literary landscape of the time. Students will analyze key works and figures, gaining a comprehensive understanding of Arabic literary traditions.

Transform this course into personalized study materials with AI

90h
Study Time
13
Weeks
7h
Per Week
none
Math Level
Course Keywords
Arabic LiteratureEarly IslamUmayyad PeriodPoetryProse

Course Overview

Everything you need to know about this course

Course Difficulty

Intermediate Level
Builds on foundational knowledge
65%
intermediate
📚
Math Level
No Math
📖
Learning Type
Theoretical Focus

Course Topics

Key areas covered in this course

1

Early Islamic Poetry

2

Umayyad Prose

3

Oratory

4

Arts of Writing

5

Political Influences

6

Social Context

Total Topics6 topics

Requirements

Knowledge and skills recommended for success

Basic knowledge of Arabic language and literature

💡 Don't have all requirements? Don't worry! Many students successfully complete this course with basic preparation and dedication.

Assessment Methods

How your progress will be evaluated (3 methods)

assignments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

tutor-marked assessments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

final examination

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Computer Based Test

Career Opportunities

Explore the career paths this course opens up for you

Historian

Apply your skills in this growing field

Arabic Language Specialist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Translator

Apply your skills in this growing field

Cultural Analyst

Apply your skills in this growing field

Archivist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Industry Applications

Real-world sectors where you can apply your knowledge

EducationTranslation ServicesCultural Heritage PreservationDiplomacyResearch

Study Schedule Beta

A structured 13-week journey through the course content

Week
1

Module 1:

2h

Unit 1: The Poetry of Early Islamic Period

2 study hours
  • Understand the meaning of Early Islamic period.
  • Discuss the state of poetry during this time.
  • Identify themes in the poetry.
  • Compare poetry of Pre-Islamic and Early Islamic periods.
Week
2

Module 1:

2h

Unit 2: Al-Mukhađramūn and their Works

2 study hours
  • Define the term Mukhađramūn.
  • Identify popular Mukhađramūn poets.
  • Discuss the life and works of leading Mukhađramūn poets like Hassan bn Thābit, Ka'b bn Mālik, and Ka'b bn Zuhayr.
Week
3

Module 2:

2h

Unit 1: Arabic Prose in the Early Islamic Period

2 study hours
  • Discuss the dimensions of Arabic prose in the early Islamic period.
  • Understand the Qur'an as a divine literary piece.
  • Analyze the style and structure of the Qur'an.
Week
4

Module 2:

2h

Unit 2: Arabic Prose in the Early Islamic Period

2 study hours
  • Identify factors responsible for the strength of Arabic prose.
  • Discuss the influence of the Qur'an and the Hadith on Arabic language and literature.
Week
5

Module 2:

2h

Unit 3: Oratory in The Early Islamic Period

2 study hours
  • Identify major themes of Arabic oratory during the Early Islamic period.
  • Identify factors responsible for the strength of Arabic oratory.
  • Identify distinctive features of Arabic poetry in the period.
Week
6

Module 2:

2h

Unit 4: Art of Writing in the Early Islamic Period

2 study hours
  • Identify major developments that Islam brought to literacy.
  • Identify major themes of writing during the period.
Week
7

Module 3:

2h

Unit 1: The Literary Life of the Umayyad Period

2 study hours
  • Understand the history of the Umayyad period.
  • Identify new trends in the literary life of the Arabs.
  • Analyze socio-political and ideological influences on Arabic literature.
Week
8

Module 3:

2h

Unit 2: Arabic Poetry in the Umayyad Period

2 study hours
  • Identify new developments in poetic themes during the Umayyad period.
  • Understand the role of politics and political groups in these developments.
Week
9

Module 3:

2h

Unit 3: Oratory in the Umayyad Period

2 study hours
  • Identify factors responsible for the development of oratory during the Umayyad period.
  • Recognize types of oratory and prominent orators.
  • Analyze samples of oration from the period.
Week
10

Module 3:

2h

Unit 4: Arts of Writing in the Umayyad Period

2 study hours
  • Understand factors responsible for the spread of writing and compilation of knowledge.
  • Recognize the importance of the creation of the office of letters (diwan alrasail).
  • Identify prominent writers of the period.
Week
11

Module 3:

2h

Unit 5:

2 study hours
  • Discuss the main features of Arabic Literature in the Early Islamic period.
  • Identify new dimensions introduced into Arabic literature during the Umayyad period.
Week
12

Module 1:

3h

Review of Modules 1 & 2

3 study hours
  • Review all modules and units.
  • Focus on key concepts and themes.
  • Prepare for tutor-marked assignments.
Week
13

Module 3:

3h

Final Revision

3 study hours
  • Final revision and preparation for the final examination.
  • Review all course materials and notes.
  • Practice answering exam-style questions.

This study schedule is in beta and may not be accurate. Please use it as a guide and consult the course outline for the most accurate information.

Course PDF Material

Read the complete course material as provided by NOUN.

Access PDF Material

Study Tips & Exam Preparation

Expert tips to help you succeed in this course

1

Create a timeline of key historical events and literary figures from both periods.

2

Develop flashcards for important literary terms and concepts.

3

Practice analyzing sample poems and prose passages.

4

Focus on understanding the political and social context of each literary work.

5

Review tutor-marked assignments and feedback.

6

Form study groups to discuss challenging concepts and share insights.

Related Courses

Other courses in Arts that complement your learning