When is the Quran a text, a physical object, or an experience? This seminar explores the significance of the Quran in historical and contemporary Muslim communities in various regions beyond its typical Western depiction as a “holy book.” We will utilize a multi-disciplinary approach to examine the role the Quran has historically played in mysticism, religious interpretation, and law, how it functions as a ritual and devotional object, and the visual and aural aesthetics associated with it. Since this is a seminar-plus course, the class includes visits to sites in New York City related to arts of the Quran. Knowledge of Arabic or Islamic Studies not required for this course.