A comprehensive survey of Muslim Spain from 711-1492. This introduction to Muslim Spain covers the period from 711 to1492, giving readers a substantial overview of what it was that made it a unique and successful society, and of its powerful legacy in the formation of modern Spain. Using a chronological framework and pushing the main historical developments to the forefront, the author keeps in view the shifting social patterns caused by the changing balance between town and country, major and minor dynasties, foreign groupings and repeated invasions from North Africa. He also includes discussion of topics such as inter-faith relations, multi-ethnic competing groups, and how intellectual life was enriched by pluralism and influence from abroad.

Richard Hitchcock is a emeritus professor at the University of Exeter. He is author or editor of several books including The Kharjas (Boydell & Brewer), Studies on the Muwassah and the Kharja (Ithaca Press), Mozarebs in Medieval and Early Modern Spain (Ashgate) and The Arab Influence in Medieval Europe (Ithaca Press).