Middle Eastern Languages & Cultures, BA: Cultures and Societies of the Middle East and North Africa

Middle Eastern Languages and Cultures (MELC). MELC’s Cultures and Societies of the Middle East and North Africa is an interdisciplinary major which allows students to explore broadly the cultures, societies, religions, and literary and visual traditions of the greater Middle East. The geographical scope of this major includes: Arabia, the Levant, Mesopotamia, Iran and the Persianate world, Egypt and the Nile Valley, North Africa (including the Maghreb), and Asia Minor (including present-day Turkey). This major encourages students to develop an understanding of deep continuities through time, and close connections among the cultures of the region and adjacent areas. The major also promotes the humanistic study of Middle Eastern societies across ancient, medieval and modern periods –  something that no other majors currently do – while exposing students to the current methodologies and breadth of scholarship in Middle Eastern studies at Penn.

Because this concentration does not include language coursework, and does not contribute towards the University’s Language Requirement, the major consists of 12 CU. Students pursuing this major must complete the department's foundational courses: MELC 0001 (Introduction to the Ancient Middle East) and MELC 0002 (Introduction to the Middle East). Additionally, students must complete a breadth requirement consisting of one introductory to intermediate course in each of the following areas: the Ancient Middle East; Hebrew and Judaic Studies; Societies and Cultures of the Islamic World; and the Modern Middle East. To gain grounding in methodology two credits must cover literary or visual cultures and methodologies used to study them (such as MELC 0102, Reading Ancient Mesopotamia, or MELC 0700, Iranian Cinema: Gender, Politics, Religion). The remaining electives (3 CU) should consist of intermediate to advanced coursework in the student’s area of primary interest. To develop experience in researching and writing substantial analytical essays, during their senior year, students must complete a concentration paper within a MELC class in consultation with their Major Advisor.

Curriculum

The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2025 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.