The European Handbook of Central Asian Studies - History, Politics, and Societies

This handbook is the first comprehensive teaching resource for Central Asian Studies (CAS) with a strong pedagogic dimension, featuring 22 chapters by over 19 scholars. It offers a de-exoticized perspective, compares the region to European territories, and provides a foundation for advanced study. It includes a glossary, learning outcomes, and a YouTube lecture series.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 800 pages
Publication date: 14 March 2022
Publisher: ibidem-Verlag, Jessica Haunschild u Christian Schon

This comprehensive handbook serves as an invaluable resource for both teachers and students of Central Asian Studies (CAS), boasting a strong pedagogic dimension. Comprising 22 chapters, organized around five thematic pillars, it features contributions from over 19 esteemed scholars, all recognized experts in the field of CAS and Eurasian Studies. This collection extends beyond the boundaries of CAS, appealing to scholars from diverse disciplines who seek to broaden their understanding of the region. It delves into post-colonial frameworks while also challenging the Soviet-centric perspective, aiming to de-exoticize Central Asia and draw parallels with European or historically European-occupied territories.

In each chapter, the handbook offers a concise yet comprehensive overview of the topics covered, highlighting how they have been approached by the mainstream literature and identifying potential pitfalls, myths, and fresh insights. It provides a solid foundation of background knowledge about Central Asia, seamlessly interweaving it with advanced analytical perspectives to equip readers with the skills necessary to engage with more specialized sources, whether in classroom settings or through self-study.

Furthermore, this handbook boasts an extensive glossary, a comprehensive list of used abbreviations, an overview of intended learning outcomes, and a user-friendly smart index that distinguishes between names, locations, concepts, and events. An additional feature is a collection of recorded lectures available on YouTube, designed either as instructional materials for teachers or visual aids for students. These lectures were recorded by the authors themselves, offering a more personalized engagement with the content.

This project is being developed within the framework of the EISCAS project (www.eis.gr), a collaborative initiative dedicated to advancing knowledge and understanding of Central Asia and its interconnected regions. By compiling this handbook, the project aims to provide a valuable resource for scholars, educators, and enthusiasts alike, fostering a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural, historical, and political complexities of the region.

Weight: 1732g
Dimension: 175 x 245 x 75 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783838215181