Washington Irving and Islam

Discover the captivating intersection of literature and religion in Washington Irving and Islam by Zubeda Jalalzai. Published by Bloomsbury Publishing Plc in 2018, this enlightening hardback delves into the life and works of Washington Irving, particularly focusing on his biography of the Prophet Muhammad and his diverse writings that engage with Islamic history and the Muslim world.

Spanning 136 pages, Jalalzai's exploration reveals how Spanish culture, intertwined with both Muslim and Christian legends, has influenced Irving's narrative style. The book thoughtfully examines themes such as gender, heroism, and the complex interplay of Orientalism and American nationalism as articulated by Irving. Ideal for scholars and casual readers alike, this volume promises to deepen your understanding of Irving’s literary contributions to the depiction of Islam and its cultural significance in the United States.