Author: Gerhard Endress
Translator(s): Carole Hillenbrand
Publisher: New Age Books
Year: 2004
Language: English
Pages: 302
ISBN/UPC (if available): 817822156X
Description
Islam, which entered history as the message of the prophet, manifested itself as a religious and political order. Even today, long after the appearance of secular states in the East, the ideal of Islamic theocracy still has political impact. Written in clear and accessible language-and featuring a chronology of political and cultural events from the rise of Islam to the twentieth century-this is the essential introduction to Islamic history and culture.
This highly acclaimed survey provides a thoughtful and concise account of all aspects of Islam in history. Following an appraisal of the study of Islam, Gerhard Endress guides the reader through key elements: Religion (including the Revelation of the prophet Muhammad and the development of doctrine in its historical setting), Law and the state in medieval Islam, Social and economic aspects of medieval Islam,
The historical development of each of the main regions of the Islamic world (the Arabian peninsula; Syria and Palestine; Iraq; Spain; North Africa; Egypt; Iran; Anatolia), The principal trends and major periods of Islamic history, The development of Arabic, Persian and Turkish languages, Names and titles, The Muslim calendar.
REVIEWS
A major reference tool for student and teacher for many years to come.
-Journal of the Royal Asiatic Society
This impressive book is certain to be kept at the desk where lectures are written.
-Journal of the American Oriental Society
Students of Islam will find it as invaluable and convenient source of information.
-Journal of Semitic Studies
Endress presents an accurate picture of the interplay of religious inspiration and historical circumstances which shaped Islamic history from its inception. It reflects a distinct sensitivity to the nuances of the subject culture, combined with a clear command of the scholarly sources it is therefore most appropriate for graduate students beginning a middle East or Islamic specialization, for professional scholars with other specializations seeking a synoptic treatment of Islamic history, or for teachers in need of an outline for an Islamic survey course.
-MESA Bulletin
CAROLE HILLENBRAND is Professor of Islamic Studies at the University of Edinburgh.
Contents
List of illustrations
Preface
Note on the transliteration
Introduction: The Concept and Unity of Islamic History
Europe and Islam: The History of Islamic Studies in the West
Islam: Religion and Legal System
The Islamic World: Society and Economy
A Regional View of Islamic History
Periods of Islamic History
Appendix: Languages, Names and the Calendar of Islam
Chronological Table
Bibliography
Index