Arab Social Life in the Middle Ages

About the Book

This vivid portrait of everyday life in the medieval Arab world draws on thirteenth century miniatures from collections as far afield as St Petersburg and Istanbul.

The wide range of topics covers every aspect of society in the ‘Abbāsid period, from life at court to the pomp and ceremony of the military, from the dispensing of justice to the bustle of the sūq and slave market. The routine of village life is contrasted with the pleasures of urban society, and we are also introduced to the world of musicians and professional mourners. Women are shown not only as virtuous wives, and in childbirth, but as spirited and articulate individuals. The traditions of Arab hospitality are described, with scenes of drinking, feasting and etiquette.

The author has illustrated her study with contemporary miniatures, principally those of al-Wāsitī which accompany the celebrated Maqāmāt of al-Harīrī. In his text, al-Harīrī made no attempt to conceal his admiration for his unprincipled and thoroughly disreputable protagonist, Abū Zayd – who represents the voice of the common man and possibly provides a prototype for the popular picaresque heroes of later European literature. Al-Harīrī frequently used the tales as a subtle and indirect way of satirizing the prevailing social order, yet he was insistent that his work had an underlying moral purpose.

About the Author

Shirley Guthrie was educated at the Universities of Aberdeen and Edinburgh and has travelled widely in the Middle East. Since receiving her doctorate in Islamic painting in 1992, she has continued her research into illustrated Arabic manuscripts.

Reviews

'Guthrie's work is scholarly and her book is a mine of information on both basic and recondite features of Islamic society.'
Robert Irwin, Times Literary Supplement

'Very lively and informative on a wide range of topics in medieval Islamic history. The book ... is eminently accessible to students and non-specialists, and is certainly one that merits close attention.'
Medical History

'An essential read for Arabs and non-Arabs alike.'
al-Hayat