Reinterpreting Islamic Historiography

Focusing on the reigns of Harun al-Rashid and his successors, this book offers a literary-critical analysis of the early 'Abbasid Caliphate, challenging traditional historical interpretations. It posits that medieval Islamic chronicles served as allusive devices to address complex religious, political, and social issues rather than mere factual accounts. By decoding narrative strategies and thematic motifs, the study uncovers deeper meanings and identifies early narrators, marking a significant advancement in the understanding of early Islamic historiography.