Spring 2024 Middle East GU4634 section 001

Sound and Listening Cultures of the Indi

Sound Listening Cult Indi

Call Number 12701
Day & Time
Location
M 2:10pm-4:00pm
101 Knox Hall
Points 4
Grading Mode Standard
Approvals Required None
Instructor Isabel Huacuja Alonso
Type SEMINAR
Method of Instruction In-Person
Course Description

This course will explore major themes in the growing field of Sound Studies with a focus on the rich history of sound and varied cultures of sound and listening in the Indian subcontinent. The main questions that we will address include: how have political, commercial, and cultural movements shaped what the diverse populations of South Asia listen to and how they listen?  How have different forms of media shaped/ informed listening experiences in South Asia? How do listening practices and cultures from the subcontinent differ from those in other regions?  In this class we will listen to the human voice, rumor/gossip, gramophone, loud speakers, radio, film, and mp3. We will discuss the role political speeches, film songs, and devotional songs in shaping South Asian politics and culture in the twentieth-century as the subcontinent transitioned from colonial rule to nation-states. Drawing on the interdisciplinary nature of Sound Studies, we will read works from across the disciplines—anthropology, ethnomusicology, Religious Studies, Media Studies, and history. Organized thematically, this course will focus on the twentieth century, but the readings will address earlier time periods.

 

This is an upper-level undergraduate and graduate (MA) seminar. Students are expected to have some background in South Asian studies/history or media/sounds studies. The class will meet once a week for discussion of readings. In addition to readings there will be a several required film screenings or listening activities.  

Web Site Vergil
Department Middle Eastern, South Asian and African Studies
Enrollment 15 students (25 max) as of 9:06AM Sunday, December 8, 2024
Subject Middle East
Number GU4634
Section 001
Division Interfaculty
Section key 20241MDES4634W001