Lecturer in Classical Persian Language and Literature

Muhammad Ali Mojaradi (Sharghzadeh) is a lecturer in Persian language and literature, a published author of The Flame of Love: Rumi’s Poetry, and the founder of Persian Poetics. Specialising in classical Persian texts and their influence on Islamic intellectual traditions, his academic background is grounded in extensive research at the intersection of Persian literary heritage and contemporary Persian studies.

Muhammad holds a degree in Near Eastern Studies from the University of Michigan. After completing his studies, he traveled to Jordan, where he studied Arabic at Qasid Arabic Institute and Jordan University. Initially planning to remain in Jordan to continue his study of Arabic and Islam, the pandemic forced him to cut his studies short and return to America.

In addition to his academic work, Muhammad is deeply engaged with modern Persian literature and translation studies, bridging the gap between historical literary forms and contemporary cultural expressions. His commitment to preserving and promoting Persian literary heritage is evident in both his research and teaching, where he fosters a nuanced understanding of the complexities of Persian poetics and prose.

At The Classical Institute, Muhammad leads students through the rich tapestry of classical Persian literature, offering a rigorous course that explores key texts from poets such as Rumi, Hafez, and Sa'di, as well as lesser-known works. His teaching is grounded in a scholarly approach that encourages critical analysis and a deep appreciation of the literary and spiritual dimensions of the Persian language.