Abstract
The Medieval Arab world was a time of curiosity and inquiry, and many contributions to the knowledge of the earth were made during this period. Scientific study was strongly encouraged by many of the caliphate leaders. For this reason, we can call this period the "Age of Light." In contrast, many scientific studies during the " Dark Ages" of Medieval Europe were hindered by the Christian Church. Unfortunately, many Western scholarly accounts of the Middle Ages ignore the writings of Arab geographers. This study highlights the findings and theoretical underpinnings of selected Medieval Arab geographical works. It also discusses why these works have been overlooked by the West, despite evidence of their diffusion. Medieval Arab geography is exemplary in its scientific works, many of which should be credited in modern accounts of the history and philosophy of geography.
Recommended Citation
Gutierrez, Elizabeth A.
(1995)
"The Age of Light: An Overview of Arab Geography in the Middle Ages,"
The Geographical Bulletin: Vol. 37:
Iss.
1, Article 2.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.kennesaw.edu/thegeographicalbulletin/vol37/iss1/2