Introduction to the Civilization of Southeast Asia

Peoples and Cultures of Island Southeast Asia 

This course is an introduction to the cultures, histories, religions and arts of Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore and East Timor.  We will explore indigenous and exogenous frameworks for understanding the region from its early and mythological states to the present.  As much as possible, we will look to original source materials with a dual emphasis, firstly on traditional and modern rituals and artistic performances, and secondly, on formal and informal mechanisms of law and governance.  All materials will be presented in English, and no previous language or area expertise is required.