Routledge Handbook of Islam in the West
📘 About This Book
With new topics and contributions, this updated second edition discusses the history and contemporary presence of Islam in Europe and America. The book debates the relevance and multi-faceted participation of Muslims in the dynamics of Western societies, challenging the changing perception on both sides. Collating over 30 chapters, written by experts from around the world, the volume presents a wide range of perspectives. Case studies from the Muslim presence in the Iberian Peninsula between the Middle Ages and the modern age set off the Handbook, along with an outline of Muslims in America up to the twentieth century. The second part covers concepts around new conditions in terms of consolidating identities, the emergence of new Muslim actors, the appearance of institutions and institutional attitudes, the effects of Islamic presence on the arts and landscapes of the West, and the relational dynamics like ethics and gender. Exploring the influence of Islam, particularly its impact on society, culture and politics, this interdisciplinary volume is a key resource for policymakers, academics and students interested in the history of Islam, religion and the contemporary relationship between Islam and the West.
📖 Summary
The Routledge Handbook of Islam in the West, edited by Roberto Tottoli, serves as an extensive, authoritative resource examining the multifaceted history and contemporary realities of Islam across Europe and the Americas. Spanning over 30 chapters compiled by international experts, this updated second edition delves deep into the complex dynamics that define the relationship between Muslim communities and Western societies. By bridging historical context with modern socio-political realities, the volume aims to challenge and reshape prevailing perceptions on both sides of the cultural and religious divide. The book begins with a thorough historical foundation, utilizing case studies that trace the long-standing Muslim presence in the Iberian Peninsula from the Middle Ages into the modern era. This historical grounding provides readers with a deep appreciation of the deep-rooted ties between the Islamic world and Western Europe. Additionally, the opening sections outline the trajectory of Muslims in America leading up to the twentieth century, demonstrating that the Islamic presence in the Western hemisphere is far from a purely contemporary phenomenon. Moving into its second major part, the handbook shifts its analytical lens toward the modern era, focusing on the contemporary conditions surrounding identity consolidation, the emergence of new Muslim social and political actors, and the institutionalization of Islam within Western frameworks. The contributors explore how Muslims actively participate in and shape the civic, political, and cultural dynamics of their host countries. Throughout the nearly six hundred pages, the collection offers diverse perspectives on integration, societal perception, and the evolving nature of religious identity in a globalized world. By addressing both historical milestones and twenty-first-century challenges, the handbook acts as a vital reference point for scholars, policymakers, and general readers seeking a comprehensive, nuanced understanding of Islam's place in Western societies.
🎯 Key Lessons
⚖️ Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
Features contributions from numerous international experts in the field.
Covers both historical depth and contemporary socio-political issues.
Provides diverse perspectives on Muslim participation in Western societies.
Includes detailed case studies ranging from the Iberian Peninsula to America.
⚠️ Cons
The academic tone and extensive length may feel dense for casual readers.
As an edited collection, writing styles and chapter focuses vary.
❓ FAQ
Who is the editor of the Routledge Handbook of Islam in the West? +
The book is edited by Roberto Tottoli.
When was this updated second edition published? +
This edition was published in 2022.
How many chapters does the book contain? +
The volume collates over 30 chapters written by international experts.
What geographical regions are the primary focus of the book? +
The book focuses on the presence and history of Islam in Europe and America.
How many pages long is the handbook? +
The handbook spans 575 pages.
