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Murphy, Michael P.

History

2004

M.A.

This essay examines the philosophical tracts of the Persian polymath, Omar Khayyam, (l038-1131), and it approaches them within the sociopolitical and intellectual context of Saljuq Persia. Khayyam has been misinterpreted and mythologized in the west, and the inaccurate as well as unhistorical accounts of him stem from the popularity of the Rubaiyyat poetry attached to his name. The authenticity of Khayyam's authorship of those Rubaiyyat is still questionable and will remain impossible to prove. The oft-used classification of Khayyam as a poet/scientist is of little help to the student of history. Therefore, the best way to obtain an accurate account of Khayyam's life and intellectual orientation is to examine his other works. Mathematicians have studied his Algebra and Geometry, but these texts provide little in exposing the man and his beliefs. Naturally, the study of his philosophy provides the most direct insight to his philosophical and cosmological ideas. In turn, these texts help to explain how Khayyam functioned as an intellectual in a society that barely tolerated his ideas.
In order to expose the historical Omar Khayyam, several steps are necessary. First, a look at the sociopolitical climate, encompassed by the rule of specific Saljuq princes and viziers, provides the proper backdrop for an examination of both Khayyam's acceptance and disapproval by the religious and political potentates of his time. Second, a discussion of the intellectual milieu helps to clarify what ideas and systems of belief came to the fore during the period. Third, and central to this study, a close examination of Khayyam's own work elucidates how Khayyam related to this sociopolitical and intellectual situation. How does Khayyam fit into the Persian intellectual tradition? This essay concludes that he was a major figure besides his mathematical achievements. The philosophical and cosmological tenets imbued in his work illustrate his importance and uniqueness.