Rumi and the Sufi Imagination: Mysticism and Love in Persian Poetry (in Translation)

This course introduces students to the rich world of Persian Sufi poetry through the lens of its most influential voices. We begin with an accessible overview of the Sufi traditionits core concepts, ritual practices, and poetic language of love, longing, and spiritual transformation. We then turn to Attar as a key predecessor to Rumi, exploring how his narratives of the path shaped later mystical expression. The heart of the course centers on Rumis major works, especially the Masnavi and his ghazaliat, examining their themes, symbolism, and philosophical depth. We conclude with Hafez, whose lyric poetry reimagines Sufi imagery with nuance, irony, and emotional intensity. Readings combine original poems (in English translation) with secondary scholarship. No prior knowledge of Persian literature or Islam is required.