AP/HUMA 4817 6.00

Charismatic Authority in Shii Islam

Shiism is the oldest self-identified movement in Islam, defined by the belief that Muhammad appointed Ali as his successor and transmitted to the Imams his charismatic authority. The course explores the imprint of these beliefs on Shi'a Quranic exegesis, theology, and jurisprudence; on gender, popular practices, pilgrimage sites; and the expression of Shi'i piety in religious architecture, painting, and the performing arts.