Product Description

The Islamic Middle East is a rare, thought-provoking account of the origins, nature, and evolution of Islam that provides a historical perspective vital to understanding the contemporary Middle East.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #504328 in Books
• Published on: 2002-10-18
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 352 pages

Midwest Book Review
The Islamic Middle East: An Historical Anthropology is an account of the origins, nature, and evolution of Islam. It is also an exploration of the cultures of the middle East where Islam originated fourteen centuries ago, and of the Arab, Persian and Turkish societies where it remains a powerful force. Islam and the cultures in which it arose are inseparably linked, and, as author Charles Lindholm shows, need to be understood in the context of each other. This outstanding synthesis of historical and anthropological perspectives provides a fresh understanding of the nature of Islam and of the Middle East in the past and in the present. It is written with verve and wit, and illustrated with maps,figures and 18th and 19th century lithographs. The Islamic Middle East is fully referenced, indexed, and includes a glossary and comparative time line. The Islamic Middle East is an invaluable and highly recommended introduction for anyone seeking to understand the impact of Islam on the political, social, economic, and cultural issues of the mideast today.

Review
"Charles Lindholm has provided an exceptional service to both the scholarly community and the public in his masterful work, The Islamic Middle East. Rather than treating Middle Eastern history and institutions as exotic narrative or dry doctrine, he places the development of Islamic civilization firmly in its cultural context. He brings it to life, making it both comprehensible and clear to Western readers." William Beeman, Brown University

"This is a brilliant book, combining historical knowledge and anthropological theory in an elegant and high-powered manner. This is the best introduction to the classical heartland of Islam available, and it will continue to attract both readers and attention." John Hall, McGill University

"[An] eloquent and clearly written book." The Muslim World Book Review

Review
"Charles Lindholm has provided an exceptional service to both the scholarly community and the public in his masterful work, The Islamic Middle East. Rather than treating Middle Eastern history and institutions as exotic narrative or dry doctrine, he places the development of Islamic civilization firmly in its cultural context. He brings it to life, making it both comprehensible and clear to Western readers." William Beeman, Brown University

"This is a brilliant book, combining historical knowledge and anthropological theory in an elegant and high-powered manner. This is the best introduction to the classical heartland of Islam available, and it will continue to attract both readers and attention." John Hall, McGill University

"[An] eloquent and clearly written book." The Muslim World Book Review