Meaning: The quote by John Keegan, a renowned historian, provides insight into the historical perception of Islam in the 18th, 19th, and first half of the 20th century. Keegan asserts that during this period, Islam was perceived as a "poor thing" and was often overlooked or dismissed. He characterizes it as a "funny sort of pure system of beliefs" held by depressed people in the Middle East. This quote sheds light on the historical context and perception of Islam during a significant period of global history.

During the 18th, 19th, and early 20th centuries, the Western world, particularly Europe, was undergoing significant social, political, and industrial transformations. The Age of Enlightenment, the Industrial Revolution, and the rise of colonial empires shaped the global landscape and influenced perceptions of different cultures and religions. In this context, Islam, as a major world religion, was often viewed through a Eurocentric lens, which contributed to its marginalization and misrepresentation.

The colonial expansion of European powers into the Middle East and other predominantly Muslim regions also played a significant role in shaping the perception of Islam during this period. The colonial powers often sought to impose their own cultural and religious norms, leading to the denigration and marginalization of indigenous beliefs and practices, including Islam. This resulted in a distorted and condescending view of Islam as a "pure system of beliefs" held by oppressed and downtrodden people, as noted by Keegan.

Furthermore, the orientalist perspective prevalent in Western academia and popular discourse contributed to the perception of Islam as exotic, irrational, and inferior. Scholars and writers often portrayed Islam as a monolithic and static religion, ignoring its diverse traditions, intellectual contributions, and historical complexity. This Eurocentric and orientalist lens further reinforced the marginalization of Islam and perpetuated stereotypes that persist to this day.

It is essential to note that Keegan's quote reflects a specific historical perspective and should be understood within its context. While it accurately captures the prevailing attitudes towards Islam during the mentioned period, it does not represent the entirety of historical or contemporary views on Islam. In recent decades, there has been a growing recognition of the need to understand Islam in its diverse forms and within its historical and cultural contexts.

In conclusion, John Keegan's quote offers valuable insight into the historical perception of Islam during the 18th, 19th, and early 20th centuries. It highlights the marginalization and misrepresentation of Islam within the Eurocentric and orientalist frameworks that dominated Western discourse at the time. Understanding this historical context is crucial for addressing contemporary misconceptions and promoting a more nuanced and informed understanding of Islam and its diverse manifestations.