The Islamic-Byzantine Border in History: From the Rise of Islam to the End of the Crusades

This book explores the significance of the Islamic-Byzantine border from the rise of Islam to the end of the Crusades. It provides a comparative perspective, featuring both leading Byzantinists and leading researchers of the Islamic world. It offers a broad chronological perspective, showing the longue durée rather than focusing on a specific period. The book explores the political, social, religious, and historical importance of the border, including its influence on religious law, apocalyptic literature, population policy, and heroic culture.

Format: Hardback
Length: 257 pages
Publication date: 31 March 2023
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

The Islamic-Byzantine border, spanning from the rise of Islam to the end of the Crusades, holds immense significance in the annals of history. This captivating border, which defined the geopolitical landscape for centuries, has been the subject of dedicated research, offering a comparative perspective that brings together renowned Byzantinists and esteemed scholars of the Islamic world. What sets this work apart is its unique chronological approach, which spans a vast expanse of time rather than focusing solely on a specific period. This comprehensive examination sheds light on one of the most formative and consequential areas of historical inquiry, encompassing Mediterranean history, Byzantine history, Islamic history, and the intricate dynamics between Muslim and Christian communities.

The Islamic conquests of the Eastern Mediterranean in the 630s CE marked the beginning of a protracted conflict that would shape the course of history. This period witnessed the emergence of the Islamic Caliphates, which expanded their influence over vast territories, including the formerly Byzantine lands. The Islamic-Byzantine border, stretching from the Mediterranean Sea to the Middle East, became a focal point of intense rivalry and cultural exchange.

The chapters in this book, penned by twelve esteemed scholars, delve into various aspects of the political, social, religious, and historical significance of the Islamic-Byzantine border. They explore the multifaceted ways in which this border influenced the internal development and culture of both the Islamic and Byzantine civilizations. From the tumultuous events of anti-government riots and dynastic revolutions to the profound impact on religious law, apocalyptic literature, population policy, and heroic culture, the chapters offer a rich tapestry of insights.

The Islamic-Byzantine border played a pivotal role in shaping the identities of both societies. It facilitated the exchange of ideas, religions, and cultures, leading to a fusion of traditions and the emergence of new hybrid identities. The border also served as a buffer zone, protecting the Byzantine Empire from external threats and allowing it to maintain its independence. However, the border was not always a peaceful one, as it was often the site of clashes and conflicts.

The Islamic-Byzantine border also had a profound impact on the wider Mediterranean region. It facilitated trade and commerce, allowing goods and ideas to flow between the two civilizations. The border also played a role in the spread of diseases, as the two regions were closely interconnected, and the exchange of people and ideas led to the spread of illnesses.

In conclusion, the Islamic-Byzantine border, spanning from the rise of Islam to the end of the Crusades, holds a crucial place in the history of the Mediterranean world. This cross-disciplinary book offers a comprehensive examination of the political, social, religious, and historical importance of this border, providing a comparative perspective that brings together renowned Byzantinists and esteemed scholars of the Islamic world. Through its unique chronological approach, it sheds light on the multifaceted ways in which this border influenced the internal development and culture of both the Islamic and Byzantine civilizations. The chapters offer a rich tapestry of insights, exploring the tumultuous events, cultural exchanges, and the enduring legacy of this border. This work serves as a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in understanding the complex and multifaceted relationship between the Islamic and Byzantine worlds.

Weight: 652g
Dimension: 161 x 241 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399513029