Introduction to Ibn Battuta
Carl Ernst
Introduction to Islamic Civilization
General remarks on Ibn Battuta
(1304-1368 or 1369)
Example of “the premodern roots of
globalization” equal to over 40 modern
countries
Complete translation of travels in four
volumes (1929-1994, Hakluyt Society)
Imitated by modern travelers: Tim
Mackintosh-Smith, Carolyn McIntyre
Numerous museum exhibits, film series
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The Rihla or travel book: chief
characteristics
Literary autobiography and descriptive
compendium, “as told to” the scholar Ibn
Juzayy
Chronological problems in the
reconstruction of the voyage, nearly 30
years after his departure from Morocco
Portrait of political and cultural elites
Emphasis on cosmopolitan tendencies over
local diversity
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Journeys: 1
4
2
5
3
6
4
7
5
8
6
9
7
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Key characteristics of Ibn Battuta
Comparison with Marco Polo, seen as an
alien in Mongol Asia
Ibn Battuta was received by other Muslims
as a familiar and respected figure
Concept of the “global” Afro-Eurasian
Ecumene or “inhabited world” (Hodgson,
McNeill) opened up by the time of Ibn
Battuta
Role of nomadic invaders
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Historical issues relating to Ibn
Battuta
Problem of “Eurocentric” history – focuses
on Islam only in terms of impact on
European institutions
Erroneous view of Islam as “irrational” and
Europe as scientific
Impact of Turkish nomads on Middle East
Impact of Muslim merchants on Indian
Ocean
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Conditions making possible the
career of Ibn Battuta
“egalitarian contractualism” (Hodgson) in
Muslim societies acknowledging the shari`a
Post-Mongol urban-based society:
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Multiple journeys of Ibn Battuta
1. Pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina four
times
2. Visiting Sufi masters, lodges, and shrines.
3. Seeking legal scholars and their knowledge
in great cities
4. Seeking patrons in the great capitals of
Asia and Africa.
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Contest: Two things to look for
How many times, and where, did Ibn
Battuta get married?
How many times did he make contact with
Sufis or Sufi centers? “His traveling career
turned out to be, in essence, a grand world
tour of the lodges and tombs of famous Sufi
mystics and saints.” (p. 24)
 There will be a prize for the people who
answer these two questions correctly
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How to read this book
Go back and check locations and dynasties for
interesting tidbits to use in journals
Connect the observations of Ibn Battuta to key
themes and topics of the course up to this date
Frontiers and borders
Schools and structures of Islamic law
Holy sites
International economy
Political structures
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