This course explores the widespread claim that Islam is an inherently violent religion. After an overview of the history of Islam, and an introduction to the concepts of myth, religion, and violence, we examine systematically the historical, social, political, and religious contexts of a series of case studies. These case studies will underscore the nature of religious language and motivation within specific contexts, exposing students to a much more complex picture of the means and ends of so-called religious violence. No prior knowledge of Islam is required. Graded on A-F basis only.