Mediaeval Isma'ili History and Thought

Description

Until recently the Isma'ilis were judged almost exclusively on the basis of the hostile accounts of their Muslim enemies and the fanciful tales of the Crusaders. As a result, numerous misconceptions were disseminated about the teachings and practices of the Isma'ilis, known in European tradition as the Assassins. In the 1930s, however, authentic Isma'ili texts began to be recovered from private collections which shed new light on mediaeval Isma'ili history and thought. This collective volume, the first major effort of its kind in this branch of Islamic studies, brings together some of the original results of modern scholarship in the area, written by leading contemporary authorities, as well as distinguished Islamists.

'... an extremely useful collection which deserves a place in the library of any individual or institute concerned with the study of Islam and of Islamic history.' Peter Jackson, Journal of Semitic Studies 'Daftary is an indefatigable scholar and editor who has succeeded within a short period of time to revive and expand Isma'ili studies as a legitimate variant of the wider Islamic tradition. This book is a living and eloquent testimony to his ongoing endeavours.' History '... an indispensable volume for any Islamic history collection ... absorbing and scholarly collection of essays ...'. Bulletin of the School of Oriental & African Studies