How is Armstrong’s view of Islam shaped by her non-Muslim identity? At what points does she appear to be writing for a predominantly non-Muslim audience, and how does this inform her choices?

Select one of the cultural moments mentioned by Armstrong, such as the construction of the Taj Mahal or the dissemination of Rumi’s poetry. How does this cultural moment relate to the book’s theological and political themes, and what does it reveal about Islamic culture in that particular moment?

Although Armstrong makes reference to several important women in the history of Islam, the text is dominated by male figures. What historical figures might be included in a women’s history of Islam that are missing from Armstrong’s book?