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Introduction to Ibn Battuta

Carl Ernst

Introduction to Islamic Civilization

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General remarks on Ibn Battuta

(1304-1368 or 1369)

Example of the premodern roots of

globalization equal to over 40 modern

countriesComplete translation of travels in four

volumes (1929-1994, Hakluyt Society)

Imitated by modern travelers: TimMackintosh-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

JuzayyChronological problems in the

reconstruction of the voyage, nearly 30

years after his departure from MoroccoPortrait of political and cultural elites

Emphasis on cosmopolitan tendencies over

local diversity3

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Journeys: 1

4

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2

5

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3

6

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4

7

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5

8

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6

9

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7

10

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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 Muslimsas 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 11

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Historical issues relating to Ibn

Battuta

Problem of Eurocentric history focuses

on Islam only in terms of impact on

European institutionsErroneous view of Islam as irrational and

Europe as scientific

Impact of Turkish nomads on Middle EastImpact 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 ofAsia 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 withSufis 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 keythemes and topics of the course up to this date

Frontiers and borders

Schools and structures of Islamic lawHoly sites

International economy

Political structures

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