Submitted by Colleen Park
on
JSIS A 206 Contemporary India and Pakistan
WINTER 2021 | SLN 16037
What are the roots of the two nations we know today as India and Pakistan? What are the major social, political and global issues now facing them, and how have they been shaped by the continuing legacies of partition, independence and colonialism? What are the things that define, divide or bring together the varied populations of this region? Together, India and Pakistan make up more than 1/6 of the world’s population, comprising an immense diversity of languages, religions, political systems, social structures, ecologies, cultural traditions, and economic circumstances. In the 21st century, as throughout history, they are key players in shaping the course of political and economic events across Asia and the globe, with South Asian forms of film, music, cuisine and culture world-renowned.
This course will investigate the modern history and origins of these two states, along with issues of contemporary politics, language, gender and sexuality, caste, religious culture, urbanization, and popular culture. In order to gain a deep and rounded understanding of South Asia’s dynamic and regionally varied culture and society we will read, view, and listen to a wide range of contemporary media and sources, including first and second person accounts, videos, literary readings, pictures, movies and music. Students will also gain experience in participating in group discussions, writing short responses, and analyzing visual, literary and multimedia materials. The course will be offered semi-asynchronously, with lectures posted online for flexible viewing.
What are the roots of the two nations we know today as India and Pakistan? What are the major social, political and global issues now facing them, and how have they been shaped by the continuing legacies of partition, independence and colonialism? What are the things that define, divide or bring together the varied populations of this region? Together, India and Pakistan make up more than 1/6 of the world’s population, comprising an immense diversity of languages, religions, political systems, social structures, ecologies, cultural traditions, and economic circumstances. In the 21st century, as throughout history, they are key players in shaping the course of political and economic events across Asia and the globe, with South Asian forms of film, music, cuisine and culture world-renowned.
This course will investigate the modern history and origins of these two states, along with issues of contemporary politics, language, gender and sexuality, caste, religious culture, urbanization, and popular culture. In order to gain a deep and rounded understanding of South Asia’s dynamic and regionally varied culture and society we will read, view, and listen to a wide range of contemporary media and sources, including first and second person accounts, videos, literary readings, pictures, movies and music. Students will also gain experience in participating in group discussions, writing short responses, and analyzing visual, literary and multimedia materials. The course will be offered semi-asynchronously, with lectures posted online for flexible viewing.