The Calligraphic State - (Comparative Studies on Muslim Societies) by Brinkley Messick (Paperback)

About the Book

"Throws completely fresh light on non-colonial yet modern systems of legality and moral power. . . . The picture given of Islamic legal education and practice is one of the best available . . . a compelling read and a fine book for teaching."--Paul Dresch, Oxford University

Book Synopsis

In this innovative combination of anthropology, history, and postmodern theory, Brinkley Messick examines the changing relation of writing and authority in a Muslim society from the late nineteenth century to the present. The creation and interpretation of texts, from sacred scriptures to administrative and legal contracts, are among the fundamental ways that authority is established and maintained in a complex state. Yet few scholars have explored this process and the ways in which it changes, especially outside the Western world.

Messick brings together intensive ethnography and textual analysis from a wealth of material: Islamic jurisprudence, Yemeni histories, local documents. In exploring the structure and transformation of literacy, law, and statecraft in Yemen, he raises important issues that are of comparative significance for understanding political life in other Muslim and nonwestern states as well.

From the Back Cover

'A first-rate introduction to the everyday workings of 'shari 'at society' and to Muslim understandings of the written and spoken word...An authoritative model for anthropological writing about complex societies.' --Gregory Starrett, International Journal of Middle East Studies

About the Author

Brinkley Messick is Assistant Professor of Anthropology at the University of Michigan.