CVSP 202 Final, Fall 2002

| LIBLARY oF 4 a BEIRUT Civilization Sequence 202 Final Interpretation Exercise A.U.B. Jan. 29, 03 2002-03 S. Khoury OPEN BOOKS - OPEN NOTES — OPEN MINDS REMEMBER: A. — Quality is more convincing than quantity..... B. Don’t ‘talk’ when you write, present a systematical coherent analysis according to the instructions... Answer Two questions Only: . THE TRUTH “Do not know the truth by men, but rather, know the truth and you will know its adherents”. (Al-Ghazzali, p. 40). 1. Analyze the above quotation within its context, with particular emphasis on its significance for Al-Ghazzali’s attitude towards knowledge and seekers of the Truth. Respond to the above quotation from the point of view of two (2) of the following: Augustine, OR Aquinas, OR Luther, OR Ibn Rushd, OR Ibn Tufayl, OR Ibn Khaldun. Conclude by stating clearly the effects of this quotation on our human relations. “The gulf between how one should live and how one does live...” Interpret Chapter XV of ‘The Prince” by elaborating the consequences of the “guif’ — concept: a. with regard to the author’s recommendations to the prince. b. In view of Machiavelli’s own moral consciousness. React to this statement from Ibn Khaldun’s or Ghazzali’s or Ibn Tufayl’s point of view State your own opinion. ORI. Guidance = Virgil and/or Beatrice? “He (Virgil) says he’ll bear me company until I shall be when Beatrice also is, and after he needs must say farewell”. (Dante, Purgatory, XXIII) 1. Interpret these lines (allegorically?!) with particular emphasis on what each Virgil and Beatrice symbolize (or stand for), their function and role in guiding Dante on his journey, their relationship and their limitations. . Comment on the results of your interpretation from the point of view of Ibn Rushd. Does he agree with this allegorical meaning? Why or Why not? 3. Conclude and state your OWN opinion. ORIV. Indicative Titles? 1. Select any three (3) texts (one (1) from each unit) and show how the title relates to the thesis of the text. 2. Which is the most “indicative” title in your opinion? Why? OR V. “Customs are like a Second Nature” (Ibn Khaldun, p. 245). 1. Analyze briefly, what this means and implies within Ibn Khaldun’s context. 2. Elaborate how this view on “customs” affects Ibn Khaldun’s concept concerning the course of history with respect to the life- time of dynasties. Is there anything comparable in Al-Ghazali’s experience? Specify. State your own opinion. GOOD LUCK! FORALL YOUR FINALS.