Cultural and Religious Diversity of Azerbaijan 3600-RKRA-OW

The course offers a comprehensive introduction to the study of multiculturalism and ethnic diversity in the context of one of the world’s most culturally diverse regions – Azerbaijan and the Caucasus. It begins with an overview of the main definitions and concepts of multiculturalism, introducing fundamental theories related to ethnic, linguistic, and cultural identity. Particular attention is devoted to Azerbaijan as a multi-ethnic and multi-religious region shaped by centuries of coexistence among diverse communities.

One of the key issues discussed during the course is the ethnolinguistic diversity of Azerbaijan. The classes explore the major language families present in the region, including Turkic, Caucasian, Indo-Iranian, and Slavic traditions. Examples of multilingualism are examined through the histories and cultures of Azerbaijanis, Lezgins, Talysh, Avars, Kurds, Jews, and representatives of the Shahdag groups, such as the Budukh, Jek, Gryz, Khinalug, and Tsakhur communities.

The course analyses the historical foundations of ethnic diversity in the region, focusing on migrations and cultural interactions from antiquity to the present day. Particular attention is paid to the role of historical trade routes in shaping the ethnic mosaic of the Caucasus. Students are also introduced to the accounts of Polish travellers and scholars of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries who described the cultural diversity of Azerbaijan in their memoirs and studies.

Religious aspects of the region are explored through discussions of cultural syncretism resulting from the presence of Zoroastrianism, Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. Special emphasis is placed on the history and development of Islam in the Caucasus, including Sunni-Shia relations, religious rituals, and Sufi traditions. The course also addresses the specificity of ethno-confessional groups such as the Molokans (Old Believers), as well as the religious policies of the Russian Empire and state–religion relations in different historical periods.

Special attention is devoted to the role of women in the multi-ethnic society of Azerbaijan, both in traditional and contemporary contexts. The classes examine women’s roles as guardians of cultural heritage and their place in social and political life.

The final part of the course focuses on contemporary language policy and the protection of minority languages in Azerbaijan, including programmes aimed at preserving endangered languages and cultures. The course concludes with a broader reflection on the challenges of globalisation and the preservation of cultural identity in the context of dynamic socio-political change.

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