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The Crucible of Islam

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( 112 ratings, 22 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Crucible of Islam by G. W. Bowersock explores the transformative early years of Islam, from its origins in the Arabian Peninsula through its establishment and expansion. The book delves into the religious, cultural, and political influences that shaped the Islamic world during this pivotal period. By blending historical evidence and scholarly analysis, Bowersock offers a vivid account of the foundational events and figures that contributed to the rise of Islam.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$4299
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This book may appeal to you if you're fascinated by the historical roots and development of Islam in the context of the Late Antiquity period. With G. W. Bowersock's extensive knowledge, you might enjoy a deep dive into how early Islamic history was shaped by the cultures and events of the time, offering a compelling perspective on the birth of a major world religion.

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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Little is known about Arabia in the sixth century, yet from this distant time and place emerged a faith and an empire that stretched from the Iberian Peninsula to India. Today, Muslims account for nearly a quarter of the global population.

A renowned classicist, G. W. Bowersock seeks to illuminate this obscure and dynamic period in the history of Islamβ€”exploring why arid Arabia proved to be such fertile ground for Muhammad's prophetic message, and why that message spread so quickly to the wider world. The Crucible of Islam offers a compelling explanation of how one of the world's great religions took shape.

"A remarkable work of scholarship."
-Wall Street Journal

"A little book of explosive originality and penetrating judgment. The joy of reading this account of the background and emergence of early Islam is the knowledge that Bowersock has built it from solid stones. A masterpiece of the historian's craft."
-Peter Brown, New York Review of Books

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Crucible of Islam by G. W. Bowersock is praised for its scholarly depth, erudition, and clarity in explaining the origins of Islam. Critics commend its ability to weave together complex historical narratives into a coherent and engaging account, effectively capturing the essence of early Islam's formation. This book is a masterful and invaluable exploration of the political, social, and religious contexts of 6th- and 7th-century Arabia, dispelling myths and offering fresh insights into this pivotal period.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780674237728

Publisher: Harvard University Press

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 20 May 2019

Country: United States

Imprint: Harvard University Press

Illustration: 5 photos, 2 maps

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 17.0mm

Width: 111.0mm

Height: 184.0mm

Weight: 200g

Pages: 240

About the Author

G. W. Bowersock is Professor Emeritus of Ancient History at the Institute for Advanced Study, Princeton.

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