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al-Jahiz

Type Figure Region Iraq Time c. 776–869 Also known as Amr ibn Bahr

Abbasid-era scholar and prose writer from Basra (c. 776–869), famed for his erudition and satire and for the Book of Animals.

Timeline

  1. c. 776–800Basra · MesopotamiaAl-Jahiz was born in Basra to a poor family and educated himself in mosques and bookshops in Arabic, grammar, theology, and translations of Greek philosophy, gradually developing his eloquence and broad learning and coming into contact with Mu'tazilite thought.
  2. c. 815–850Baghdad · MesopotamiaAl-Jahiz went to Baghdad, where he wrote speeches and works for caliphs and notables and became known for satirical prose and polemical essays. In this period he completed major works such as the Book of Animals, blending natural observation, social commentary, and literary skill.
  3. c. 850–869Basra · MesopotamiaIn his later years al-Jahiz continued to write on language, rhetoric, theology, social customs, and natural science, leaving a catalogue of more than two hundred works. His lively, witty prose opened a new paradigm for Arabic prose writing.

Sources