The History and Development of the Muslim Community in Britain (2)

This module comprises two main elements:

1) Migration, Diversity and Dynamics

2) Theories and Methodological Issues

This module provides an in-depth examination of Islam in Britain, from its earliest history to the present day. Drawing upon a wide range of disciplines (such as history, politics, and social anthropology) students will critically evaluate the emergence of the British Muslim population, and the dynamics which shape the community today. As part of this module, students will also explore the theories and conceptual vocabulary relating to Islam in Britain, and consider in more depth the issues that arise in research with British Muslims. Topics covered in this module include some of the following:

• The history of Islam in Britain before 1800 CE
• Muslim settlement from 1945-2005
• The history and expression of ideological difference
• Institutionalizing Islam: mosques and other Islamic facilities in Britain
• Muslim community leadership: politics, power and authority
• British Muslim 'identity'
• Gendered communities: expressions of femininity and masculinity
• Conceptual vocabulary: 'race', 'ethnicity', 'community', 'identity', 'multiculturalism'