INTRODUCTION TO MODERN IRAN

Iran, formerly known as Persia, is one of the foremost global civilizations. Situated in the heart of the Middle East and sitting astride the Silk Road, Iran has for many centuries been the seat of empire or itself the object of successive waves of conquest. Iran’s contributions to humankind through culture, language, architecture, religion, philosophy and literature are profound and enduring.

This half-day course provides a general introduction to Iran’s history and its people. It will cover the following aspects:

• The geography of Iran
• Iranian national identity and culture
• The legacy of empire
• Religion in Iran
• The Persian language (Farsi)
• 20th century Iran: history and politics

Hamish McGregor completed a PhD in Iranian history at The Australian National University. He has lived and worked in Iran for a number of years, as a student and later as a diplomat. He has recently returned to Christchurch after several years working in Dubai in the border security and aviation sectors.