Introduction to English Studies in Muslim Societies

Introduction to English Studies in Muslim Societies (ENGL 1310)

• This course explores English studies within Muslim societies.

Overview

• Module 1: Literature & Islam
• Module 2: History of English Literature
• Module 3: English Literature introduction in British India
• Module 4: Postcolonial Literature
• Module 5: The birth of Muslim writings
• Module 6: Homework

What's the Difference Between Literature & Islam?

• The presentation includes visual representations of literature and Islamic elements.

History of English Literature

• Visual depiction of historical figures.

English Literature

• European colonizers used education to control colonized societies.
• Edward Said describes imperialism as an "educational movement".
• Colonialism was the primary reason for introducing English language and literature to colonies like Malaysia.
• Colonial rule relied on controlling minds through education.
• Napoleon Bonaparte's conquest was accompanied by scholars and soldiers.
• The British East India Company employed both military force and scholars (Anglicists & Orientalists).

English Literature (Continued)

• English Literature was introduced in British India in 1835.
• Hegemonic power is an indirect method to dominate without using military force, commonly seen in pre-WW1 academia.
• Pre-WW1, English literature was not highly valued in British universities, often considered for less important or talented students.
• Robert Eaglestone argues that English literature was viewed negatively in pre-WW1 Britain's academia.
• Continental literature such as Greek, Latin, and Italian were valued over English.

English Literature (Continued)

• Before WWII, English literature held a lower regard within British academic standards.
• In 1971, Cambridge University recognized English Literature as a subject.
• Post-WWI, Britain followed Cambridge's approach to "re-civilize" former colonies with English literature
• English literature was promoted as a tool for spreading Western ideals and values, viewed as part of the civilizing mission.

English Literature (Continued)

• Ironically, English Literature was first introduced as a tertiary-level subject of study in India, not England.
• The British changed their colonial strategy, looking for alternatives to Christian missionary work in India.

Why Was English Literature Introduced in British India 1835?

• To exploit colonized lands, people, and resources.
• To perpetuate cultural and mental colonization.

Postcolonial Literature

• In the postcolonial world, characterized by diverse cultures and neo-colonial anxieties, there's a need to reconstruct national identities and reject Western culture and values.
• A primary goal of postcolonial literature is deconstructing the concept of cultural modernity transmitted through Western literary texts.

Postcolonial Literature (Continued)

• The teaching of English Literature in colonies is seen as a tool to assert Western cultural and moral superiority while devaluing indigenous culture.
• The postcolonial world saw the rise of immigrant literature, Muslim diasporic literature, and British Muslim literature addressing issues related to identity and culture.

Homework

• Students are tasked with finding and analyzing Quranic verses or Hadiths regarding language and literature to discuss in class.

This quiz covers the foundational elements of English studies in the context of Muslim societies, addressing literature, history, and the effects of colonialism. Topics include the interplay between literature and Islam, historical figures, and the emergence of Muslim writings. Explore critical themes that define the study of English literature within these contexts.