Knowledge and Beauty in Classical Islam: An Aesthetic Reading of the Muqaddima by Ibn Khaldun

This book explores Ibn Khaldūn's Muqaddima, arguing that it is a comprehensive treatise on classical Arab-Islamic culture and provides a picture of classical Arab-Islamic aesthetics. It explores the connection between beauty and knowledge, and how the philosophy of history is an aesthetics of history. It also highlights the contradictions inherent in the aesthetic system of the Muqaddima, which undermine it and contribute to the emergence of modern aesthetics.

Format: Hardback
Length: 168 pages
Publication date: 19 October 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive volume delves into the rich tapestry of the Muqaddima, penned by the esteemed Ibn Khaldūn (d. 1406), a text that has been meticulously studied as a work of historiography. It presents a captivating aesthetic interpretation of this seminal text, arguing that it encompasses a profound exploration of classical Arab-Islamic culture, offering a holistic portrayal of its aesthetic essence.

At the heart of this book lies the profound theme of the intrinsic connection between beauty and knowledge within the Muqaddima. Whenever Ibn Khaldūn delves into the realms of knowledge and science, he cannot help but address the issue of sensual beauty as either an instrument or a hindrance to attaining it. In essence, his philosophy of history becomes an aesthetics of history, intertwining the two realms seamlessly.

One of the central concepts in Ibn Khaldūn's philosophy is the notion of "group feeling," a physical, ethical, and aesthetic virtue inherent in Bedouin societies. This notion holds significant importance as it not only shapes the ascent of centralized states but also contributes to their downfall. It represents a tragic contradiction that resonates throughout the history of the Maghreb, but its universal significance transcends regional boundaries. This contradiction reflects a range of other contradictions inherent in the system of classical Arab-Islamic aesthetics, which, in turn, undermine the aesthetic system of the Muqaddima from within.

By adopting a comparative approach, this volume serves as a valuable resource for scholars and students engaged in the study of Arabic and Islamic studies, philosophy, aesthetics, and global history. It provides a deep dive into the intricate nuances of the Muqaddima, shedding light on its historical, cultural, and aesthetic significance, while also offering insights into the broader context of its creation and the broader trajectory of Islamic civilization. Through its comprehensive analysis, this volume contributes to our understanding of the complex interplay between beauty, knowledge, and the evolution of human civilization.

Weight: 422g
Dimension: 162 x 240 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367898984