Writing Signs

by Bierman, Irene A.

• ISBN13: 9780520208025
• ISBN10: 0520208021
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 1998-10-01
• Publisher: Univ of California Pr

Summary

Irene Bierman explores the complex relationship between alphabet and language as well as the ways the two elements are socially defined by time and place. She focuses her exploration on the Eastern Mediterranean in the sixth through twelfth centuries, notably Cairo's Fatimid dynasty of 969-1171. Examining the inscriptions on Fatimid architecture and textiles, Bierman offers insight into all elements of that society, from religion to the economy, and the enormous changes the dynasty underwent during that period. Bierman addresses fundamental issues of what buildings mean, how inscriptions affect that meaning, and the role of written messages and the ceremonies into which they are incorporated in service of propagandist goals. Her method and conclusions provide a pioneering model for studying public writing in other societies and offer powerful evidence to show that writing is a highly charged and deeply embedded social practice.

Table of Contents

List of Illustrations
Preface
Initial Considerations	p. 1
Signing the Community	p. 28
The Fatimid Public Text and the Sign of Isma'ilism	p. 60
The Fatimid Public Text in a Changing Political Climate	p. 100
Afterword	p. 133
Fatimid Imam-Caliphs and Wazirs	p. 147
Glossary	p. 149
Notes	p. 153
Bibliography	p. 191
Index	p. 207
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