Middle Eastern Languages and Cultures - Classical and Medieval Hebrew Literature
The Middle Eastern Languages and Cultures: Classical and Medieval Hebrew Literature Master of Arts program at Pennsylvania University is a two-year, full-time graduate degree offering an in-depth exploration of Hebrew literary traditions from antiquity through the medieval period. Drawing on philology, literary analysis, history, and cultural studies, the program trains students to critically engage with foundational texts, authors, and movements within the broader context of Jewish, Islamic, and Middle Eastern civilizations. It emphasizes close reading of primary sources in Hebrew, often supplemented by texts in Aramaic, Judeo-Arabic, or related languages, alongside relevant historical and theoretical frameworks.
Students are guided by a multidisciplinary faculty with expertise in literature, religious studies, linguistics, and comparative cultures. Through seminars, language training, and independent research, learners examine literary genres ranging from biblical poetry to medieval philosophical prose, while also analyzing the intersections of religion, politics, and identity in historical Jewish communities. The program is well-suited to those aiming for academic careers, cultural research, or advanced study in religious or linguistic traditions, and it encourages critical inquiry grounded in linguistic rigor and cultural fluency.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Middle Eastern Languages and Cultures - Classical and Medieval Hebrew Literature
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Area & Cultural Studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in Language and Textual Tradition
- Classical Hebrew Grammar and Syntax
- Introduction to Classical and Medieval Hebrew Literature
- Literary Methods and Textual Analysis
- Jewish Intellectual History in the Middle East
Semester 2 – Historical Context and Cultural Exchange
- Medieval Hebrew Poetry and Prose
- Comparative Readings: Judeo-Arabic and Aramaic Texts
- Historiography of the Middle Eastern Jewish Experience
- Research Methods in Philology and Cultural Studies
Semester 3 – Specialization and Thematic Study
- Hebrew Literary Commentary and Exegesis
- Interfaith Dialogues and Literary Transmission
- Seminar: Hebrew Literature in Islamic Contexts
- Directed Reading: Individualized Research Focus
Semester 4 – Thesis and Scholarly Development
- Master’s Thesis Research and Writing
- Academic Writing and Presentation Skills
- Capstone Seminar in Middle Eastern Literary Cultures
- Manuscript Studies or Paleography (elective)
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are well-equipped for academic and research-oriented careers in Jewish studies, Middle Eastern cultural history, comparative literature, and religious studies. Many pursue doctoral studies or work as research fellows, language instructors, or cultural analysts in universities, libraries, research institutes, and nonprofit organizations focused on heritage preservation or interfaith dialogue. Their linguistic expertise and deep contextual understanding also make them valuable contributors to translation projects, museum curation, and manuscript preservation initiatives. Some may work in publishing, educational program development, or as advisors for academic archives and cultural institutions. The ability to analyze historical texts with both linguistic precision and cultural sensitivity positions graduates to contribute meaningfully to scholarly, civic, and cross-cultural dialogues around Jewish and Middle Eastern heritage.
Why Choose This Program
This program offers a rare opportunity to engage deeply with classical and medieval Hebrew texts within a broader Middle Eastern cultural framework. The two-year structure enables mastery of language, theory, and historical context, while allowing students to pursue personalized research interests under close faculty mentorship. The curriculum combines rigorous philological training with interdisciplinary inquiry, promoting intellectual growth that is both scholarly and relevant. Pennsylvania University’s access to rare manuscripts, library collections, and active academic networks enhances the research experience. Whether your goal is to pursue an academic path, contribute to cultural preservation, or explore intersections of literature and history, this program provides the depth, tools, and scholarly environment to support meaningful and lasting engagement with a rich literary tradition.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
