Pre-Islamic Period: To 610 Covers 150 years and ends when Mohammed arrives with his teachings. Koran was the first literary prose and is still considered to be the finest work of poetry and eloquence.
Early Islamic Period
Begins with the Revelation of the Koran and includes the literature of the Prophet's time. Ends with the fall of the Umayyad Empire in 750. The Umayyads until until 750 and their capital was Damascus, Syria, considered to be one of the most important cultural centers in the world. The Umayyads contact with the Greeks, Persians, and Indian cultures created a cultural renaissance of Arabic music and dance. Poetry was connected
Abbasid Period
Begins in 750 and is considered the glorious days of Islamic civilization and Islamic literature. This period ends in 1256 with the fall of Bagdad and its capture by the Mongol hordes.
Period of Decline
Lasts until the renaissance of Arabic literature in the middle of the 19th century. Few great writers emerged during this period.
Renaissance of Arabic Literature
This time is also known as An-Nahda. Arrived with the influence of Western literature and the growing Arab nationalistic movement. Modern libraries were built, and many scientific, literary, and political societies were founded. This period continue up into present day.
