MA (Hons) Arabic and Ancient Greek in Edinburgh United Kingdom | The University of Edinburgh

The influence of classical Greek culture has profoundly shaped Islamic intellectual traditions. Through Arabic translations, this heritage has also significantly impacted Western philosophy since the 12th century CE. The enduring connections among Arabic, ancient Greek, and related civilizations create an ideal pairing for joint honors study.

Modern Arabic serves as the primary language for over 350 million people across a vast region stretching from the Atlantic Ocean to the Persian Gulf. Ranking as the world's sixth most spoken language, it holds official status in the United Nations alongside five other languages. Significant Arabic-speaking communities exist throughout Western Europe and Latin America.

Our program requires no previous experience with Arabic or ancient Greek. By your third year, you'll acquire the necessary skills to pursue studies abroad.

Mastering Arabic unlocks access to Islam's rich scholarly traditions and reveals a culturally diverse region. Beyond Middle Eastern studies, our joint honors program enhances your understanding of classical and Islamic Mediterranean literature, culture, and historical developments.