THE CENTURY OF AL-MU'TAMID

THE CENTURY OF AL-MU'TAMID

Book Summary

This work offers a comprehensive analysis of the 11th-century Andalusian period, with special attention to the figure of al-Mu'tamid, the legendary king-poet of the Taifa of Seville. The book explores his role as a ruler, tireless military man, and prolific writer, while contextualizing the tumultuous historical period in which he lived. The reader will discover not only the different facets of this cultivated prince, but also the keys to the scientific, medical, philosophical, literary, and legal spheres that defined a golden age of al-Andalus.

What is it about?

The book delves into the 11th-century Andalusian period, a time of political fragmentation and cultural splendor, taking as its central axis the figure of al-Mu'tamid, the third ruler of the Taifa of Seville. Born in Beja, this prince stood out as much for his military prowess as for his exquisite poetic production. The work examines his legacy from a dual perspective: as a strategist and as a literary creator, analyzing the moving achievements and personal nuances of his work. Furthermore, the study expands to cover the general context of the century, addressing key issues in science, medicine, philosophy, law, and literary creation, thus offering an integral vision of the environment in which al-Mu'tamid exercised his power and developed his art.

Main themes

• The figure of the king-poet al-Mu'tamid and his legacy in the Taifa of Seville.
• The historical, political, and cultural context of the 11th-century Andalusian period.
• Literary and poetic production as an expression of power and sensibility.
• The intersection between military activity and intellectual creation in al-Andalus.
• Advances in science, medicine, philosophy, and law during the Taifa period.

Who is it recommended for?

This book is aimed at students, researchers, and enthusiasts of the history of al-Andalus, medieval literature, and Arab culture. It will also be of interest to those who wish to learn about the figure of al-Mu'tamid in depth, as well as readers looking for a contextualized vision of the 11th-century Andalusian period, from its artistic manifestations to its scientific and legal development.

What this book provides

• A detailed analysis of al-Mu'tamid, combining his facets as ruler and poet.
• A panoramic view of the 11th-century Andalusian period, beyond the figure of the king of Seville.
• Keys to understanding the interrelationship between power, culture, and science in al-Andalus.
• An approach to the literary and poetic production of the era with a critical focus.
• Rigorous historical context that enriches the understanding of one of the most fascinating periods in the history of the peninsula.

Technical data

• Author: University of Huelva
• Language: Spanish
• Publisher: University of Huelva
• Subject: History, Social and Cultural History
• Collection: Almona Arab Studies Collection
• Binding: Other
• Publication date: Not specified
• Number of pages: 160
• Dimensions: Not specified
• Weight: 396 g

Editorial review

This is a work that combines academic rigor with a narrative focused on one of the most charismatic figures of al-Andalus. Its value lies in the ability to integrate the biographical study of al-Mu'tamid with a broader analysis of the 11th century, offering the reader both an intimate portrait of the king-poet and an understanding of the social, cultural, and scientific context of his time. It is a recommended read for those seeking a serious and well-documented approach to a complex but fascinating historical period.