Asian and Middle East Studies

This first-year seminar situates the study of Asia and the Middle East in the context of the global humanities. As a sampler of the rich diversity of Asian and Islamicate humanities, the course explores various sources from different places and periods, from the medieval Middle East to modern Chinese science fiction.

As an extensive system of economic and cultural exchange, the Silk Road is an early example of what today we call globalization. This course surveys its history from prehistoric times to the present. You’ll learn to think critically about Asia and appreciate the rich heritages that have contributed to our world.

Kenyon is one of few colleges to offer Sundanese gamelan degung, a traditional Indonesian ensemble incorporating various instruments. You’ll be introduced to basic and advanced instrumental techniques and receive coaching in musicianship and ensemble skills, culminating in public performance. No musical experience required!

Some of the most fundamental notions in modern mathematics have their roots in the Islamic world, such as the modern number system, the fields of algebra and trigonometry, and the concept of algorithm. This course unites math with history and social science, bringing history and religion into the mathematical mix.