Islam & Christianity in Africa

This program, part of the six-volume series Wonders of Africa, might have been better titled Muslim & Christian Architecture in North Africa, as it is comprised of five beautifully shot and edited 12-minute films (originally aired on German television), each touring an ancient city: Cairo and Abu Mena in Egypt, Fez in Morocco, Lalibela in Ethiopia, and Kairouan in Tunisia. Since the films are separate, there is no linear narrative here tracing the enormous impact that Christianity, then Islam, had on the region. Instead, the individual history of each city is chronicled, with the Cairo episode, for instance, covering the Abbasid and Mameluke dynasties of the Muslim world, while the Abu Mena segment looks at the rule of Roman emperor and Christian convert Constantine. Viewers will also learn about hallmarks of the two faiths (i.e., since the calligraphy of Kairouan is renowned, its significance in Islam is discussed). The other titles in the series are: African Trade Networks, European Exploration of Africa, Slavery & Colonialism in Africa, Sub-Saharan Cultures, and Wildlife Parks of Africa. Recommended. Aud: J, H, P. (E. Gieschen)