Front cover image for The sum of all heresies : the image of Islam in Western thought

The sum of all heresies : the image of Islam in Western thought

"Current global tensions and the spread of terrorism have resurrected in the West a largely negative perception of Islamic society and an ill will toward Islam fueled by centuries of conflict and prejudice. Shedding light on the history behind these hostile feelings, Frederick Quinn's timely volume traces the Western image of Islam from its earliest days to recent times." "Quinn establishes four basic themes around which the image of Islam gravitates throughout history: the Prophet as Antichrist, heretic, and Satan; the Prophet as Fallen Christian, corrupted monk, or Arab Lucifer; the Prophet as sexual deviant, polygamist, and charlatan; and the Prophet as Wise Easterner, Holy Person, and dispenser of wisdom. A feature of the book is a strong portrayal of Islam in literature, art, music, and popular culture." "In this book, Quinn highlights longstanding historical prejudices and also introduces readers to some of the landmark voices in history who have worked toward a greater understanding of Islam."--Jacket

Print Book, English, 2008
Oxford University Press, Oxford, 2008