Fruit of Knowledge, Wheel of Learning (Vol I) - Essays in Honour of Professor Carole Hillenbrand

Carole and Robert Hillenbrand are renowned academics, and this book collects scholarly essays by their colleagues and students, covering various topics in Islamic history and art history.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 01 April 2022
Publisher: Gingko Library

Carole and Robert Hillenbrand, esteemed academics, have left an indelible mark on the fields of Islamic history and art history through their groundbreaking contributions. Their profound respect and adoration within the academic community are widely renowned. In preparation for these two remarkable volumes, editors Ali Ansari and Melanie Gibson have assembled an extensive collection of scholarly essays, curated from both longstanding colleagues and emerging scholars who hold esteemed academic positions across the globe. The volume dedicated to Carole Hillenbrand showcases eleven captivating articles that delve into diverse topics such as the enigmatic Fatimid caliph al-Zafr, a daring Crusader raid on Mecca, and the remarkable History of England penned by the Persian bureaucrat Mirza Saleh Shirazi.

Carole Hillenbrand's contributions to Islamic history have been nothing short of extraordinary. Her expertise in the Fatimid period has shed light on the intricate political dynamics and cultural developments of the time. Her research on al-Zafr, the enigmatic Fatimid caliph, has provided valuable insights into his reign and the challenges he faced. Additionally, her analysis of the Crusader raid on Mecca, a pivotal event in Islamic history, has shed new light on the strategies employed by the Christians and the subsequent impact on the Muslim world.

Furthermore, Carole Hillenbrand's work on Mirza Saleh Shirazi's History of England is a testament to her broad interests and her ability to bridge different historical periods. The book offers a comprehensive account of English history from the Norman Conquest to the early modern period, providing a rich tapestry of political, social, and cultural developments. Through her meticulous research and insightful analysis, Hillenbrand has brought to life the personalities, events, and ideologies that shaped England's history, making it accessible to a wider audience.

Robert Hillenbrand, in his own right, has made significant contributions to art history. His expertise in Islamic art and architecture has deepened our understanding of the rich cultural heritage of the Middle East. His research on the Mamluk Sultanate, a period of immense artistic and architectural development in the Islamic world, has shed new light on the intricate designs, techniques, and symbolism employed in Islamic art.

Hillenbrand's work on the Mamluk Sultanate has also explored the complex relationships between art and politics during this period. He has demonstrated how art was used as a tool to consolidate power, promote religious beliefs, and showcase the grandeur of the sultanate. Through his meticulous analysis and thoughtful interpretations, Hillenbrand has provided a valuable contribution to our understanding of the role of art in shaping historical narratives and cultural identities.

The respect and affection that the academic community holds for Carole and Robert Hillenbrand are well-deserved. Their tireless dedication to scholarship, their commitment to advancing knowledge, and their ability to inspire and engage students and scholars alike have earned them a place of honor in the world of academia. These two volumes, which showcase the breadth and depth of their intellectual achievements, serve as a testament to their enduring legacy and the impact they have made on the fields of Islamic history and art history.

In conclusion, Carole and Robert Hillenbrand are two exceptional scholars who have left an indelible mark on the fields of Islamic history and art history. Their contributions have not only enriched our understanding of these historical periods but have also inspired generations of students and scholars to pursue their own intellectual pursuits. The respect and affection that the academic community holds for them are a testament to their profound impact and the lasting value of their work. These two volumes, which gather a wide range of scholarly essays by their colleagues and students, serve as a testament to their legacy and the enduring significance of their contributions.

Dimension: 11 x 9 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781909942592