The events described in this volume took place during al- abar 's own time. Al- abar was thus writing "contemporary history," and his narrative, often based on first-hand reports, is drawn in vivid and arresting detail. The volume portrays the summit of "the S marr period," following al-Mu'ta im's transfer of the 'Abb sid capital upstream from Baghdad to Samarra. Three caliphs are portrayed in this volume: al-Mu'tasim's son and successor, al-Wathiq; al-Wathiq's brother al-Mutawakkil; and al-Mutawakkil's son al-Munta ir. ...
Read More
The events described in this volume took place during al- abar 's own time. Al- abar was thus writing "contemporary history," and his narrative, often based on first-hand reports, is drawn in vivid and arresting detail. The volume portrays the summit of "the S marr period," following al-Mu'ta im's transfer of the 'Abb sid capital upstream from Baghdad to Samarra. Three caliphs are portrayed in this volume: al-Mu'tasim's son and successor, al-Wathiq; al-Wathiq's brother al-Mutawakkil; and al-Mutawakkil's son al-Munta ir. At this time the 'Abb sid caliphs came under the dominant influence of the Turkish military elite. The crowning example of Turkish power and 'Abb sid frailty was the dramatic assassination of al-Mutawakkil by Turkish officers within the precincts of his own palace. The Turks were afterward not only instrumental in raising al-Muntasir the caliphate, they also forced him to depose his two brothers as heirs apparent. Finally, they had al-Munta ir himself killed. During the period of al-W thiq and al-Mutawakkil, insurrections erupted in the center of the empire, and serious revolts broke out in distant provinces, including Africa and Armenia. The Byzantine raids on Damietta and Samosata were memorable events, and periodic Muslim forays were made into Byzantine territory. Prisoner exchanges between Muslims and Byzantines are reported in engaging detail on the basis of eyewitness testimony. The report of a prisoner release by a Shi'ite emissary to the Byzantine emperor contains a charming description of his visit to Constantinople and his audience with Michael III. A discounted price is available when purchasing the entire 39-volume History of al- abar set. Contact SUNY Press for more information.
Read Less
Choose your shipping method in Checkout. Costs may vary based on destination.
Seller's Description:
Very Good. 0887068758. Light wear to covers, foxing to top edge, bookplate, otherwise text clean and solid; SUNY Series In Near Eastern Studies; 8vo 8"-9" tall; 284 pages.
