Islamic History: A Very Short Introduction - Very Short Introductions (Paperback)

Adam J. Silverstein (author)

£7.99

Paperback 176 Pages / Published: 21/01/2010

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Synopsis

Does history matter? This book argues not that history matters, but that Islamic history does. This Very Short Introduction introduces the story of Islamic history; the controversies surrounding its study; and the significance that it holds - for Muslims and for non-Muslims alike. Opening with a lucid overview of the rise and spread of Islam, from the seventh to twenty first century, the book charts the evolution of what was originally a small, localised community of believers into an international religion with over a billion adherents. Chapters are also dedicated to the peoples - Arabs, Persians, and Turks - who shaped Islamic history, and to three representative institutions - the mosque, jihad, and the caliphate - that highlight Islam's diversity over time. Finally, the roles that Islamic history has played in both religious and political contexts are analysed, while stressing the unique status that history enjoys amongst Muslims, especially compared to its lowly place in Wester

Publisher: Oxford University Press
ISBN: 9780199545728
Number of pages: 176
Weight: 155 g
Dimensions: 173 x 111 x 10 mm

MEDIA REVIEWS

The book is extremely lucid, readable, sensibly organised, and wears its considerable learning, as they say, 'lightly'. * BBC History Magazine *
I cannot imagine any reader not profiting from this tight-packed and intelligently presented text. * BBC History Magazine *
Brilliant little book...This highly approachable text is evidently backed by a deep scholarship and is full of eye-catching perspectives. * Steven Poole, The Guardian *
Silverstein, who teaches the subject at Oxford University, is up-to-date, shrewd and often witty...
the book's lucidity, intelligence and indeed its brevity make it an ideal introduction to the field of study...
The book is a gem, and it deserves a wide readership well beyond the academic community. * David Morgan, TLS *