Shadows of The Pomegranate Tree- Second Half

      Throughout the second half of the novel, Ali shows how in both religions there are good people and bad people. Although he tries to humanize people of both religions, it seems as if the Islamic people are very accepting of many things we find strange today. The Muslims appear to tolerate other religions and do not judge others for their beliefs. Even more impressive, the Muslims accept alternative lifestyles such as being gay. In today’s society, many still don’t approve of being homosexual and yet the entire Hudayl family didn’t mind that Ibn Daud had a previous male lover.

            Despite the fact that in today’s society Muslims are perceived as extremists who do not tolerate others, the Muslims in Shadows of The Pomegranate Tree are portrayed as accepting individuals. While the Catholics push and force their will upon others, the Muslims allow others to practice freely. In the book they even tell Miguel that if he were to actually believe in Catholicism, it would be preferable to practicing falsely. To the Hudayl’s, what one believed in was respected as long as it was done honorably. The Christians and Jews in the village are even allowed to come to the town meeting once the Friday prayers were over. This shows how the Muslims even respect the opinions of people of other faiths. Ali then humanizes the Muslims greatly through the character of Ibn Daud. While in current times society may find it strange for a man to be with a man and then a woman, Umar and his wife do not judge Ibn Daud as long as he makes their daughter happy. Instead of condemning him for being poor and previously with a man, they measure his character by his wit and love for Hind.

            This novel shows the human side of Muslims during the Inquisition. While the Catholics impose their will upon the others, the Muslims allow others to exercise free will. Ali creates a society within the village that contrasts the Catholic Church of the time. The Catholics believed that their methods were backwards and primitive, yet the Muslims show kindness towards others that demonstrate their evolved beliefs.