Zubaidah Bint Ja’far and Her Effects in Cultural, Artistic, and Social Life in Her Period

Abstract

Baghdad emerged as a thriving city in the early era of the Abbasids and renowned for its affluence and cultural advancement during the caliphate of Harun al-Rashid. Notably, women belonging to the upper echelons of society, including but not limited to the caliph's consorts and concubines, assumed active roles in both society and politics. Zubaidah bint Ja’far, the wife of the Caliph Harun al-Rashid, was an influential woman who utilized her position to engage in philanthropic activities and contribute to the development of society. Their love story has become famous and Zubaidah, with her intelligence and beauty, fascinated the Caliph and influenced his decisions. Zubaidah was also recognized for her generosity towards scholars and poets. Her life and contributions to the era are documented in historical texts and literary works of the time, such as the Thousand and One Nights Tales. This study aims to examine the life and achievements of Zubaidah bint Ja'far during the Abbasid era, focusing on her contributions to politics, society, and literature. She played a significant role in the administration of the state alongside her husband, and served as inspiration for poems and tales in Thousand and One Nights collection. The analysis of the Thousand and One Nights Tales involved using a descriptive method and historical research to present how her personality is perceived by people of her time and emphasize her lasting legacy.