Biruni

Description

This book places Biruni in his historical and cultural context within the long-term history of medieval Eurasia. It outlines the course of Biruni's life, clarifying key questions about his associations, travels, and patrons. Following an overview of Biruni's chief interests, it details his major works to illustrate the breadth of Biruni's output and his intellectual approach, especially his attention to language, esteem for knowledge, and commitment to objective truth. An account of his institutional context and relationships elucidates his friendships and rivalries, notably with Avicenna. The book also shows how varied paths of transmission affected the legacy of Biruni and its reception in global scientific and literary traditions. Finally, a timeline, list of key works, and detailed bibliographic essay will guide readers into further study of Biruni and his thought.

About the Author

Research Fellow and Dean, Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies, Oxford

Table of contents

Contents
List of maps and diagrams vi
Preface vii
Acknowledgements ix
1 The Islamic East a millennium ago: Biruni's world 1
2 Life of a polymath: his autobiography and biography 28
3 Scientific and cultural research: overview of key works 55
4 An approach to truth: aspects of his thought 84
5 Friends and rivals: knowledge, institutions, and relationships 109
6 Reception of a polymath: Biruni in history 130
7 Further reading: a guide to the literature 148
Works cited 159
Timeline 160
Key Works 161
Index 162