Aisha (poet) facts for kids

ʿĀʾisha bint Aḥmad al-Qurṭubiyya (died around 1009 or 1010 CE in Córdoba, Spain), also known as Aysha or al-Qurtubiyya, was a famous poet from the 900s. She mostly wrote in Arabic.

Biography of Aisha al-Qurtubiyya

Aisha was likely born in Córdoba. She was known as a talented poet and a skilled calligrapher (someone who writes beautifully). We don't know much about her early life. However, it seems she was the sister of Muḥammad b. Aḥmad b. Qādim.

Some people say she was a princess of Córdoba. Others claim her father's full name was Aḥmad b. Muḥammad b. Qādim b. Ziyād. She might have also been the niece of a doctor and poet named Abū ʿAbdallāh b. Qādim al-Ṭabīb.

Aisha died in 1009, at the start of a period of conflict in al-Andalus. Historians like Ibn Ḥayyān praised Aisha for her intelligence and her deep knowledge of literature and poetry. She was also known for her beautiful handwriting. Aisha would copy the Qurʾān and other books by hand. She loved learning and collected many books, building a large and impressive library.

Aisha's Poetry

Aisha's poems are famous for being lively, fresh, and bold. Her works were often applauded at the Royal Academy in Córdoba. One of her most well-known poems is about turning down a marriage proposal from another poet.

Here is an example of Aisha's writing:

She also wrote poems praising the rulers of her time. One surviving example is a poem for Abd al-Malik al-Muzaffar, who ruled from 1002 to 1008 CE.

Aisha's Legacy

Aisha is recognized as an important figure in history. She was included in a list of Notable Muslims in a special edition of Saudi Aramco World in 2002.

Aisha is also featured in a famous art piece by Judy Chicago called The Dinner Party. Her name is one of the 999 names on the Heritage Floor, which honors important women throughout history.

See also

In Spanish: Aisha (poetisa) para niños