THE PORTRAYAL OF AMIR TIMUR (TAMERLANE) IN THE PUBLICATIONS OF RENE GROUSSET.

Abstract

This article examines René Grousset’s depiction of Amir Timur, the renowned French historian known for his expertise in Asian history, who offers a thoughtful analysis of Timur (Tamerlane) in his key works. Grousset portrays Timur as one of history’s most powerful conquerors, whose ambition and military skill transformed the political landscape of Central Asia and beyond in the late 14th and early 15th centuries. Grousset presents Timur as a multifaceted character—both a merciless conqueror and a patron of the arts. While his military campaigns led to widespread devastation, particularly in Persia, India, and Anatolia, Grousset also recognizes Timur’s contributions to the Timurid Renaissance. The establishment of Samarkand as a center for culture and intellect, marked by significant architectural and artistic accomplishments, is a central focus of Grousset’s analysis.