Books in the Near Eastern Center, UCLA series

Sayyid Jamal ad-Din al-Afghani (1838-1897), was a religious reformer and political activist, led a busy and complex life full of obscure and clandestine ventures. Although he was concerned with the wide ranging need for Islamic reform, he devoted most of his life to the more urgent political problems confronting Muslims. This book tells his story.

Gives an overview of the Mediterranean (history, people, culture) during the high middle ages. This book discusses the working class; the business world, and government's role in commerce; and describes travel and seafaring.

Tells how it was in the Mediterranean world of the tenth through the thirteenth century. This book details city life, domestic architecture, furnishings and housewares, clothing and jewelry, food and drink, and other material culture.

Explores the nature of medieval religious democracy, including discussion of the community, social services, local government, worship, education, interfaith relations, relations between religion and the state, and the relations between the communities and the state.

Deals with the Mediterranean family - the extended family, marriage (rituals, economics, social and cultural safeguards), the Mediterranean household, widowhood, divorce, remarriage, and the world of women.

Tells how it was in the Mediterranean world of the tenth through the thirteenth century. This book draws a portrait of the individual - a social person who mingled within the community; addressed the challenges of poverty, illness, aging, and death; possessed friends, enemies, and lovers; and prayed and responded within a religious community.