Abstract

Abstract This chapter introduces the book’s conceptual framework, the “discourse of place,” the genres of texts it includes, and their shared commitment to the representation of territories as categories of belonging. It also discusses the methodology of close reading used in the book and the related ideas of textual and extratextual performance that make it possible to view written and graphic texts as acts of creativity that were intended to interact with audiences. Viewing texts as performances sheds light on the various modes of reception and reproduction of knowledge in this period. This chapter also considers the open-ended processes of manuscript redaction and transmission that have made texts from the ninth through the eleventh centuries available for analysis. Finally, it presents the book’s main argument, that in a period characterized by political fragmentation the discourse of place gave Muslims a powerful language to assert connectivity and belonging.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.