An Exploratory Study of the Historical Evolution and Development of Art of Book among Afghans

Abstract

Aim of the Study: The book is another face of living history. It preserves the past in the shape of writing and its reading causes us to produce an imaginary film of its contents in our minds. This study describes the development of art of book within a nation, Afghan race (not Afghanistani), which passed from Bedouin culture into sedentary civilization during medieval period of Indian history.

Methodology: This study is based on qualitative research and historical comparative research method. The study of Afghan art of book is crossed checked with the development of art of book among Beni Israel and Arabs.

Findings: The study reveals that how the people of one nation behave towards arts and learning, at the same time at different geographical-cum-economic conditions. It verifies the phenomena of Ibn Khaldun that book production and learning is characteristic of civilizations. Hence, most of the historical and literary works of Afghans are written after their settlement in India.

Conclusion: By above discussion, researchers reach to the conclusion that the art of book was developed among Afghans as per their socio-economic conditions. When they came into contact with their neighboring nations like Persians, Turks and Indians, their art started but remained simple due to their economic weakness. These tribals were unable to produce high quality art of book due to their wandering, loose settlement conscious and common way of livelihood.