Reorienting the Sasanians

This book explores the significant cultural role of Central Asia in Persian-Islamic history, particularly during the rise of the Sasanian Empire.

In the mediaeval period, Central Asia emerged as a significant hub of Persian-Islamic culture, spanning from the Seljuks to the Mongols. In Reorienting the Sasanians, Khodadad Rezakhani delves into the intricate history behind this transformation, exploring the influential roles of the Kushans and the enigmatic 'Asian Huns'. These groups were pivotal in shaping the Sasanian Empire and had a lasting impact on the broader Middle Eastern landscape.

Traditionally, Central Asia has been perceived as a peripheral region, often regarded merely as a series of disconnected stops along the Silk Road between China and the Middle East. However, Reorienting the Sasanians challenges this notion, illustrating how this area was anything but marginal during the mediaeval era. Rezakhani presents a compelling narrative that redefines the region's significance, highlighting its cultural and historical contributions that were once overlooked.

The book contextualizes Persian history in relation to Central Asia, pushing the boundaries of late antiquity further east than typically acknowledged. It provides a thorough survey of the historical interplay between Iran and Central Asia from 200 to 800 CE, while also examining the rise of Islam in both regions. Through this lens, Reorienting the Sasanians offers readers a fresh perspective on the interconnectedness of these vibrant cultures and their enduring legacies.