The Islamic Middle East: Tradition and Change - Softcover

"Charles Lindholm has provided an exceptional service to both the scholarly community and the public in his masterful work, The Islamic Middle East. Rather than treating Middle Eastern history and institutions as exotic narrative or dry doctrine, he places the development of Islamic civilization firmly in its cultural context. He brings it to life, making it both comprehensible and clear to Western readers." William Beeman, Brown University "This is a brilliant book, combining historical knowledge and anthropological theory in an elegant and high--powered manner. This is the best introduction to the classical heartland of Islam available, and it will continue to attract both readers and attention." John Hall, McGill University "[An] eloquent and clearly written book." The Muslim World Book Review

The Islamic Middle East is a rare, thought--provoking account of the origins, nature, and evolution of Islam that provides a historical perspective vital to understanding the contemporary Middle East.