HIST 338 - Crusades and Jihads (4)

This course examines the use of the terms “crusade” and “jihad” from the Middle Ages to today to investigate the rhetoric behind religious warfare. We explore the question of how expressions of “holy war” can be traced back to theological interpretations, as well as to more mundane motivations. While we study the events surrounding the conflict that we call “crusades,” this course scrutinizes the narratives left by Christians and Muslims who lived these events. Students discuss the modern application of the terms of “crusade” and “jihad” to decipher the lasting appeal of these concepts as cultural touchpoints and political propaganda. Offered: Fall and Spring, on rotation.