Christians, Muslims, and Mary: A History

This monograph examines the complex history of Christian-Muslim relations through the lens of Marian devotion, demonstrating how the figure of Mary has served both as a bridge and barrier between these two religious traditions. George-Tvrtković traces the evolution of interreligious encounters surrounding Mary from the seventh century to the present, revealing how theological perspectives on the Virgin have shaped broader patterns of dialogue and conflict between Christianity and Islam.

The work employs a historical-theological methodology that combines textual analysis of scriptural sources, theological treatises, and devotional literature with examination of material culture, pilgrimage practices, and contemporary interfaith initiatives. George-Tvrtković analyzes how both traditions venerate Mary while interpreting her significance through distinct theological frameworks. The study explores Islamic reverence for Maryam as expressed in the Quran and hadith literature, alongside Christian mariological developments from patristic through modern periods.

Central to the analysis is the paradox that shared reverence for Mary has historically generated both convergence and divergence between Christians and Muslims. George-Tvrtković demonstrates how medieval polemicists weaponized Marian theology to highlight doctrinal differences, particularly regarding the Incarnation and Trinity, while simultaneously revealing instances where Mary facilitated peaceful coexistence and mutual understanding. The work examines specific historical contexts including Andalusian convivencia, Crusader-era encounters, Ottoman-Christian relations, and colonial missionary activities.

The monograph makes significant contributions to understanding how theological concepts function in lived interreligious relations. George-Tvrtković challenges simplistic narratives of inevitable Christian-Muslim conflict by documenting numerous examples of shared Marian shrines, feast day celebrations, and healing traditions. However, she equally resists romanticized accounts of natural affinity, showing how theological differences regarding Mary's role in salvation history remain substantive.

The study's importance for debates about God lies in its demonstration of how divine-human relationship models shape interreligious dynamics. By analyzing how Christians and Muslims differently understand Mary's relationship to divine action, revelation, and human salvation, George-Tvrtković illuminates fundamental theological divergences while identifying authentic possibilities for dialogue. The work contributes to contemporary discussions about whether theological truth claims necessarily generate conflict or whether shared religious figures can facilitate mutual understanding despite doctrinal differences.