How is it possible to explain Iran's current interest in southern Iraq, Yemen, and Syria? The Iranian plateau presents itself as a geographical space with so demanding constraints that life can only develop there in a circumscribed way. Original islands of culture were born in this area. However, it was impossible for Persia to have a real influence on the Middle East while remaining confined on the isolated territory it occupies. Its regional power became effective only when the Persian imaginative brain, located on the high plateau, took possession of the Babylonian belly. When this coupling became effective, Iran could seize a secondary engine located in Syria and Egypt. Conversely, when the Iranian, Babylonian, and Syrian poles were dissociated, the Persian creative power turned away from politics to focus on literary or scientific innovation.
Thomas FLICHY DE LA NEUVILLE
Séminaire
English
Spring 2023-2024
Students will be assessed during two moments:
- Group assessment - 50% of the final grade.
- Final individual assessment - 50% of the final grade.
Grades will be given on a scale from 0 to 20. Less than 10/20 is a failing grade.
Sir John Chardin, Travels in Persia
James Morier, The adventures of Hadji Baba of Ispahan