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1776
Translated by Davide Bertolotti
A historical account written in the early 19th century. This volume continues Gibbon's extensive examination of the fall of the Roman Empire, focusing on the implications of the rise of Islam and the life of the Prophet Muhammad. Gibbon delves into the socio-political dynamics and transformations within Arabia that contributed to the decline of Byzantine authority and the spread of Islam. The opening of this volume introduces the Arabian Peninsula's geography and climate, emphasizing its arid and inhospitable nature. Gibbon sketches a vivid portrait of the life of early Arabs, describing their tribal organization, pastoral lifestyle, and interactions with trade. He introduces the figure of Muhammad, detailing his background, the origins of his prophetic mission, and the socio-political context of the time. This sets the stage for analyzing how Muhammad's teachings would ultimately challenge existing religious and political structures, reshaping the landscape of the time and precipitating significant historical shifts.