Adab historiography prized elegance over factual accuracy

Evidence

Whether historical facts alleged were true was decided on theological grounds, and in a framework of exaggerated contrast; it was appropriate, and therefore true, that the enemy of Christ should be in every way and as much as possible unlike Him. — Norman Daniel, Islam and the West, 1376 (#complicates, via linked claim)

Categorization

• XREF: connects to: Medieval historiography judged historical truth by theological fitness — Norman Daniel, Islam and the West, 1376; Choosing unreliable legends was deliberate political historiography, not scholarly incompetence — John V. Tolan, Saracens, 970

Broader Connections

• Medieval historiography judged historical truth by theological fitness #complicates (0.75) — Norman Daniel, Islam and the West, 1376