Arabia and the Arabs: From the Bronze Age to the Coming of Islam

Description

Long before Muhammed preached the religion of Islam, the inhabitants of his native Arabia had played an important role in world history as both merchants and warriors. Arabia and the Arabs provides the only up-to-date, one-volume survey of the region and its peoples, from prehistory to the coming of Islam. Using a wide range of sources - inscriptions, poetry, histories, and archaeological evidence - Robert Hoyland explores the main cultural areas of Arabia, from ancient Sheba in the south, to the deserts and oases of the north. He then examines the major themes of: * the economy * society * religion * art, architecture and artefacts * language and literature * Arabhood and Arabisation. The volume is illustrated with more than 50 photographs, drawings and maps.

"In this highly original book, Hoyland gives us a rare glimpse into the society and culture of Arabia before the advent of Islam in the seventh century. Hoyland challenges the myth of pre-Islamic Arabia as culturally barren and demonstrates the social vitality of everyday life in the area. The narrative is enhanced by numerous maps, figures and plates. Highly recommended for academic and large public libraries." - Library Journal