The end of sixth century and seventh century can be considered an important turning point of history of Late Antique Near East and Mediterranean. In fact, the mutual weakening of the Roman and Persian empires in long-lasting wars, and the threat of the eastern nomad tribes created the conditions for the political and religious ascent of Islam. During of this period of social fear, political incertitude, and religious threat a new wave of apocalyptic literature spread around Christian, Jewish, Zoroastrian and early Islamic communities.

On the basis of literary and historical sources and selected scholarship, this course will analyze and discuss the main social, political, and religious dynamics and phenomena of these new forms of apocalypse. 

This course does not require any prior knowledge of ancient languages.