Analyzing (Mis)representation of the Muslims’ Holy Book ‘Al-Quran’ in Early Modern English Texts
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10448496Keywords:
Misrepresentation, Al-Quran, Early Modern English Texts, Elizabethan Era, EEBO-TCPAbstract
Purpose: This study explores the representation of the Muslim holy book, ‘Al-Quran,’ in early modern English texts from the Elizabethan era, employing textual research through the EEBO-TCP database.
Design/Methodology/Approach: Utilizing the Early English Books Online Text Creation Partnership (EEBO-TCP), the research investigates how early modern English authors depicted ‘Al-Quran,’ focusing on the portrayal of Islam and Muslims.
Findings: The examination reveals a pervasive negative representation of ‘Al-Quran’ in Elizabethan writings, associating it with falsehood, witchcraft, and opposition to Christian beliefs. This negativity arises from religious challenges posed by Islam and political tensions, including the threat perception of Ottoman Turks.
Implications/Originality/Value: The study contributes by leveraging digital resources like EEBO-TCP, shedding light on historical perceptions of Islam in the Elizabethan era. It underscores the political and religious motivations behind the negative representation of ‘Al-Quran,’ offering insights into the psychological and emotional strategies employed by Elizabethan England to counter perceived threats.
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