Medieval Latin Biographies of the Prophet Muhammad (III)

Hugh of Fleury's Ecclesiastical History

For prior instalments in this series, see:

- Anastasius the Librarian’s Ecclesiastical History
- Rodulf the Bald’s Histories

Hugh of Fleury was a French Benedictine monk who likely died in the early twelfth century CE, primarily known for his historical works, of which the most important is his Ecclesiastical History. An examination of the biography of Muhammad contained in his work shows influence from Anastasius the Librarian. In fact, Hugh tells us he consulted Anastasius for revising his historical work. Among the specific things he revised through this consultation were some of the details about the story of the ‘false prophet Muhamet.’ Even so, there are divergences in Hugh’s work, such as the fact that Khadija in this narrative is not only a wealthy businesswoman but also a ruler of a domain, and through marriage to her Muhammad acquires political power. Further, there is no fake monk who persuades Khadija of Muhammad’s prophethood.

Of note is that parallels with Hugh’s biography of Muhammad can be found in the later work ‘Chronicle of the World’ by the Spanish archbishop Lucas of Tuy (who lived in the mid-13th century CE), suggesting that its information enjoyed some transmission.

Below is Hugh’s biography translated and with annotations.