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The Meanings of Timbuktu
Contradicting the popular notion that African history survived only through the oral tradition, this collection of essays examines the rich legacy of written history on the continent, specifically in Timbuktu. It brings together articles written by a number of leading international scholars from Europe, the United States, and several African countries, covering a wide range of areas in the study of Timbuktu, from archaeology and literature to the intellectual life, libraries, and private collections in Timbuktu and West Africa.
376 pages, Hardcover
First published June 1, 2008
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About the author
Souleymane Bachir Diagne
69 books30 followersSouleymane Bachir Diagne (1955) is a Senegalese philosopher. His work is focused on the history of logic and mathematics, epistemology, the tradition of philosophy in the Islamic world, identity formation, and African literatures and philosophies.
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Displaying 1 of 1 review
December 15, 2024
Super informative book! The chapters are written as individual essays by different authors edited by Diagne. They have very varied topics but usually focus on the history of books, writing and intellectuals in Timbuktu.
It has 3 whole chapters talking about the Kunta, which I thought was the most interesting. It was the reason why I chose to read this book, but honestly, the rest was equally as informative.
Another super interesting aspect is that this book showcases Timbuktu as a prime example of how African societies actively engaged with and shaped Islamic traditions. Through meticulous research and analysis of historical manuscripts, the authors demonstrate how Timbuktu's scholars integrated Islamic teachings with existing African intellectual and cultural practices.
While the book delves into various aspects of Timbuktu's history and culture, its insights into the dynamics of African Islamic traditions were what I found most valuable and interesting.
Rating it 4/5 mostly due to chapter organisation, but that's just me being nitpicky. I'd rate it a 4.5 if it were possible here.
It has 3 whole chapters talking about the Kunta, which I thought was the most interesting. It was the reason why I chose to read this book, but honestly, the rest was equally as informative.
Another super interesting aspect is that this book showcases Timbuktu as a prime example of how African societies actively engaged with and shaped Islamic traditions. Through meticulous research and analysis of historical manuscripts, the authors demonstrate how Timbuktu's scholars integrated Islamic teachings with existing African intellectual and cultural practices.
While the book delves into various aspects of Timbuktu's history and culture, its insights into the dynamics of African Islamic traditions were what I found most valuable and interesting.
Rating it 4/5 mostly due to chapter organisation, but that's just me being nitpicky. I'd rate it a 4.5 if it were possible here.
Displaying 1 of 1 review