introduction to ibn battuta carl ernst introduction to islamic civilization
TRANSCRIPT
Introduction to Ibn Battuta
Carl Ernst
Introduction to Islamic Civilization
General remarks on Ibn Battuta (1304-1368 or 1369)
Example of “the premodern roots of globalization” equal to over 40 modern countries
Complete translation of travels in four volumes (1929-1994, Hakluyt Society)
Imitated by modern travelers: Tim Mackintosh-Smith, Carolyn McIntyre
Numerous museum exhibits, film series
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The Rihla or travel book: chief characteristics
Literary autobiography and descriptive compendium, “as told to” the scholar Ibn Juzayy
Chronological problems in the reconstruction of the voyage, nearly 30 years after his departure from Morocco
Portrait of political and cultural elites
Emphasis on cosmopolitan tendencies over local diversity
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Journeys: 1
4
2
5
3
6
4
7
5
8
6
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Key characteristics of Ibn Battuta
Comparison with Marco Polo, seen as an alien in Mongol Asia
Ibn Battuta was received by other Muslims as a familiar and respected figure
Concept of the “global” Afro-Eurasian Ecumene or “inhabited world” (Hodgson, McNeill) opened up by the time of Ibn Battuta
Role of nomadic invaders
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Historical issues relating to Ibn Battuta
Problem of “Eurocentric” history – focuses on Islam only in terms of impact on European institutions
Erroneous view of Islam as “irrational” and Europe as scientific
Impact of Turkish nomads on Middle East
Impact of Muslim merchants on Indian Ocean
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Conditions making possible the career of Ibn Battuta
“egalitarian contractualism” (Hodgson) in Muslim societies acknowledging the shari`a
Post-Mongol urban-based society:
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Multiple journeys of Ibn Battuta
1. Pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina four times
2. Visiting Sufi masters, lodges, and shrines.
3. Seeking legal scholars and their knowledge in great cities
4. Seeking patrons in the great capitals of Asia and Africa.
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Contest: Two things to look for
How many times, and where, did Ibn Battuta get married?
How many times did he make contact with Sufis or Sufi centers? “His traveling career turned out to be, in essence, a grand world tour of the lodges and tombs of famous Sufi mystics and saints.” (p. 24)
There will be a prize for the people who answer these two questions correctly
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How to read this book
Go back and check locations and dynasties for interesting tidbits to use in journals
Connect the observations of Ibn Battuta to key themes and topics of the course up to this date
Frontiers and borders
Schools and structures of Islamic law
Holy sites
International economy
Political structures16