From Reel to the Real: The Middle East in Western Popular Culture

This course explores the representation of the Middle East in Western media, challenging misconceptions, prejudices, and stereotypes. It analyzes how the media perpetuates these perceptions. It examines various mediums, including the video game Call of Duty, to understand how the Middle East is constructed and its individuals are depicted as villains. It provides an analytical framework to help students develop critical analysis skills to challenge prevailing narratives that shape popular perceptions. It fosters critical thinking to discern accurate and unbiased depictions of the "other" and promotes empathy, respect, and appreciation.