If you think that the recent history of the Islamic world must be one of resistance to modernity, think again; from the late 18th century, when Napoleon's invasion of Egypt brought one of the world's most backward societies into collision with its most advanced, the Middle East was convulsed by change. The Islamic Enlightenment tells the story of the men and women who brought about this transformation, establishing armies, schools and hospitals, stamping out the plague, slavery and concubinage and ultimately launching democratic revolutions. This epic narrative culminates with the 'Counter-Enlightenment' of the 20th century, when European imperialism was answered with Islamic militancy and the progressive cause was checked.