Routledge - The History of Saladin by Baha' al-Din Ibn Shaddad

Explore an authoritative account of one of the most significant Muslim rulers of the Crusades. This book provides a translation of Baha' al-Din Ibn Shaddad's personal history of Saladin, known as al-Nawadir al-Sultaniyya wa'l-Mahasin al-Yusufiyya. As the qadi al-'askar (judge of the army) from 1188 until Saladin's death in 1193, Ibn Shaddad was a close associate of the sultan. His unique position granted him direct access to information, making this text an essential primary source for understanding Saladin's life and career. Because the author maintained a personal relationship with the sultan, the writing offers a sympathetic and moving perspective that goes beyond standard historical tales. This volume is part of the Crusade Texts in Translation series, providing readers with a deep look into the social and urban history of the era through a firsthand lens.