The Cambridge Illustrated History of the Islamic World (Cambridge Illustrated Histories) [Paperback]

'This sumptuously illustrated volume, whose writers include well-known specialists such as Patricia Crone and Robert Irwin, has much to recommend it: a high level of text; copious, well-reproduced illustrations that are generally enhanced by clear and informative explanations and commentaries; and a splendid and comprehensive bibliography … together with a useful glossary and list of rulers.' Asian Affairs

'Quality photographs and reproductions of works of art on nearly every page make the volume extremely attractive and render the reading enjoyable … This book answers the requirements of the uninitiated general public, as well as of students of Islamic and Asian civilisation.' Jerusalem Studies in Arabic and Islam

' … reliable sources of information, and beautifully produced.' International Journal for the Study of the Christian Church

Islamic peoples account for one-fifth of the world's population and yet there is widespread misunderstanding in the West about Islam. Francis Robinson and his team set out to address this, revealing with the help of sumptuous illustration, insight, and expertise, the complex and sometimes contrary nature of Muslim culture. As well as taking on the issues uppermost in everyone's minds, such as the role of religious and political fundamentalism, they demonstrate the importance of commerce, literacy and learning, Islamic art, the effects of immigration, exodus, and conquest, and the roots of current crises in the Middle East, Bosnia, and the Gulf. Throughout, emphasis is placed on the interaction between Islam and the West, from the first Latin translations of the Quran to the fatwa on Salman Rushdie, to dismantle our impression of Islam as a monolithic culture.

With the help of sumptuous illustration, insight, and expertise, this book reveals the complex, rich, and sometimes contrary nature of Islam. As well as addressing the current issues of religious and political fundamentalism, it looks at commerce, culture, demographics, and relations between Islam and the West.