Full Description
The Fatimids (909-1171), one of the most significant and intriguing Islamic dynasties, built an empire that included North Africa, Egypt and parts of Sicily, Syria, Palestine and Arabia. Theirs is the only pre-modern Shi'i dynasty to have established an independent empire and the only one known by a female's name, Fatima, the Prophet Muhammad's daughter. The Fatimids promoted women to unprecedented positions of authority and visibility in Islamic history. From Cairo - which they founded in 969 - this dynasty fostered cultural and artistic excellence as well as overall tolerance and prosperity across the empire. By blending historical and material sources, personalities and events that defined the Fatimid era are brought to life in this book. Examining their impact within the context of medieval history across Europe, Africa and Asia, the book also tells of the Fatimids' legacy and influence on contemporary culture worldwide.
Contents
Chronology of the Dynasty and Milestones
Introduction: Writing a Portrait
PART ONE
1: The Beginning of Shi'a Isma'ili Propaganda: from Covert Movement to the Unfolding of a Messianic Promise
2: The Inauguration of the Fatimid Dynasty in North Africa
3: New Imam-Caliph, New Capital, New Ventures
4: The Conquest of Egypt, Court Life and Imperial Expansion
5: The Imam-Caliph al-Hakim: Maverick or God-Incarnate?
6: The Fatimids and the World as they Saw it in the Eleventh Century
PART TWO
7: From Propaganda Ideals to Managing the State Administration
8: The Making of a Golden Age: The Cultural Life and Its Industry
9: Being a Woman in the Age of the Fatimids
10: High Drama: The Long Reign of al-Mustansir
11: The Darkest Hours of the Fatimids
12: The Legacy of a Golden Age
Epilogue
References
Select Bibliography
Acknowlegements
Photo Acknowledgements
Index
