Al-Qata'i: Ibn Tulun's City Without Walls

Al-Qatai: Ibn Tuluns City Without Walls is an award-winning novel by Bassiouney that portrays the struggle to create a more unified society in medieval Egypt and how this has shaped Egypt today. It follows the life of Ahmad Ibn Tulun, a visionary Egyptian leader who built Al-Qatai (now Cairo) into a thriving multicultural empire. The novel explores themes of diversity, equality, and the impact of vision on individuals and society.

Format: Hardback
Length: 624 pages
Publication date: 03 April 2023
Publisher: Georgetown University Press

The captivating tale of visionary Egyptian leader Ahmad Ibn Tulun, who constructed Al-Qatai (present-day Cairo) into a thriving multicultural empire, is vividly brought to life in Al-Qatai: Ibn Tuluns City Without Walls, an award-winning novel by the acclaimed author. This epic narrative unfolds against the backdrop of medieval Egypt, where the struggle for unity and cohesion took center stage.

The novel commences with the rediscovery of the Ibn Tulun Mosque in 1918, serving as a catalyst for recounting Ibn Tuluns remarkable life and enduring legacy. Spanning the ninth and tenth centuries, Bassiouney skillfully weaves together a tapestry of historical events, cultural richness, and personal struggles.

At the heart of Al-Qatai: Ibn Tuluns City Without Walls is Ibn Tuluns benevolent vision to unify all Egyptians in a new city, Al-Qatai. Driven by this noble aspiration, he becomes consumed by his mission, oblivious to the profound impact it has on his family and the destiny of Egypt. However, his unwavering dedication ultimately leads to his downfall, as a betrayal seals his fate.

In the aftermath of Ibn Tuluns tragic demise, his daughter Aisha emerges as a pivotal figure, bravely standing up against the oppressive Abbasid caliphs to safeguard her life, the city, and the iconic Ibn Tulun Mosque. Aisha's resilience and determination serve as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Egyptian people and their unwavering commitment to preserving their heritage.

Through the lens of historical fiction, Al-Qatai: Ibn Tuluns City Without Walls delves into universal themes such as diversity, equality, and the complexities of cultural integration. The novel offers a rich tapestry of characters, each with their unique perspectives and experiences, contributing to a nuanced and multi-dimensional portrayal of medieval Egypt.

By seamlessly blending historical events with contemporary insights, Al-Qatai: Ibn Tuluns City Without Walls enriches our understanding of these issues in our world today. The author's skillful storytelling and vivid descriptions transport readers to a bygone era, while also providing a valuable reflection on the enduring legacies of historical figures and the struggles for social change.

In conclusion, Al-Qatai: Ibn Tuluns City Without Walls is a captivating novel that offers a profound exploration of the human spirit, the power of vision, and the enduring legacy of medieval Egypt. Through its vivid portrayal of Ibn Tulun's life and the struggles for unity, the book invites readers to consider the universal themes of diversity, equality, and cultural integration, resonating with audiences across generations and continents.

Weight: 1132g
Dimension: 260 x 186 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781647122874