Studying Asian and Middle East Studies at Kenyon
Asian and Middle East Studies is both a concentration and a joint major, working in consort with another department. Students integrate coursework across disciplines, including anthropology, art history, history, language, music, philosophy, political science, religious studies and sociology. The department also sponsors films, invites speakers to the College, and promotes other social and cultural events to stimulate campus awareness of the societies of East Asia, India and Southeast Asia, the Middle East, North Africa and the Islamicate world.
“Taking courses in the department really opened my eyes to how interconnected social, political, economic and environmental issues are in Asia.”
Featured Courses
Introduction to 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.
The Silk Road
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.
Asian Music Ensemble
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!
History of Mathematics in the Islamic World
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.
Study Abroad Opportunities
The department encourages study abroad and endorses a variety of programs in Asia and the Middle East. Pictured: Cayla Anderson '18 walks with Colleen Moore '18 at the Ayyanar Temple in Pudukkottai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Kenyon College
Gambier, Ohio 43022