This seminar explores the global history and politics of the Middle East and North Africa. It focuses on the region’s global connections and futures. The main themes are global political ideologies that defined borders and identities in the region since the nineteenth century; transnational migration, including voluntary emigration and forced displacement; and contemporary diasporas and their cultures in and outside of the region.
4
UnitsOptional
Grading1
PasstimeUpper division only
Level LimitLetters and science
CollegeProfessor Hamed-Troyansky is absolutely wonderful! One of my favorite classes I have taken here at UCSB by far. I could understand why some might say the class required some effort, you do have to memorize definitions and dates but all expectations are clear and if you study you will do just fine!
My favorite class that I've ever taken. The material is interesting and the lectures are easy to digest. I always looked forward to the lectures. The professor is very passionate about the material and teaches very well. Would absolutely recommend this class to anyone.
The lecturers were just trying to type down the slides. the slides are posted though so you can go back and look. I took a few quizzes on Canvas that are open notes and then a midterm that is just ID terms, examples, and timelines, and a final with an essay portion that was quite difficult. It's not an easy GE.
Lectures were easy to follow and very detailed. Prof Hamed-Troyansky is very knowledgable and passionate. No surprises on the midterm and final, you study what you need basically. Readings were not too long as well. Really enjoyed this class
Global 1 is a straightforward class. I appreciated Prof. Hamed-Troyansky's continued enthusiasm and throughout lecture. He's a sweet guy. We also explored some really interesting topics. My one wish is that he wouldn't rely on reading of an outline and slides during lecture. These topics could be so much more dynamic if taught in other ways.
Lectures are really engaging, but you honestly don't need to go at all, since he posts the slides. Section mandatory. Tests are basically just definition memorizations and some other simple stuff. Also you don't need to do the readings at all since he summarizes them for you in the slides. Little effort required. Super chill professor and TAs.