The Ornament of the World Poster

The Ornament of the World 2019

★ 7.84 votes116 min📅 2019-11-19

Dive into *The Ornament of the World* (2019), a captivating documentary directed by Michael Schwarz that explores a remarkable chapter in medieval Spain.

Director: Michael Schwarz

Cast

Reuven Firestone
Himself (Hebrew Union College)
David Levering Lewis
Himself (New York University)
Jerrilynn D. Dodds
Herself (Sarah Lawrence College)
Frank Peters
Himself (New York University)
María Rosa Menocal
Herself (Author, The Ornament of the World)
D. Fairchild Ruggles
Herself (Univ. of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign)
Abigail Balbale
Herself (New York University)
Adnan Husain
Himself (Queen's University)
Teofilo Ruiz
Himself (Univ. of California, Los Angeles)
Dwight Reynolds
Himself (Univ. of California, Santa Barbara)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Ornament of the World (2019) about?

This documentary examines the 800-year period in medieval Spain when Muslims, Christians, and Jews created a thriving shared culture in cities like Cordoba and Toledo. It highlights how their collaboration in art, science, and philosophy shaped a golden age—and why that harmony eventually collapsed.

Who directed The Ornament of the World?

Michael Schwarz directed *The Ornament of the World* (2019), bringing a cinematic focus to this pivotal historical era.

Who stars in The Ornament of the World?

The film features insights from historians and scholars including Reuven Firestone, David Levering Lewis, and María Rosa Menocal.

Is The Ornament of the World (2019) worth watching?

With its rich historical narrative and stunning visuals, *The Ornament of the World* (2019) offers a compelling look at a unique period of cultural exchange. While it's unrated on IMDb, its depth and relevance make it a standout documentary for history and culture enthusiasts.

How long is The Ornament of the World?

The film runs for 116 minutes, offering ample time to explore its themes.

About The Ornament of the World (2019) — Uncovering Medieval Spain's Cultural Renaissance

Dive into *The Ornament of the World* (2019), a captivating documentary directed by Michael Schwarz that explores a remarkable chapter in medieval Spain. Over 800 years, Muslim, Christian, and Jewish communities in cities like Cordoba, Granada, Seville, and Toledo forged a shared cultural identity that defied religious divides. This film isn't just about history—it's a visual and intellectual journey through the vibrant intersections of art, architecture, and philosophy that shaped a rare era of coexistence.

Through the lens of scholars like Reuven Firestone, David Levering Lewis, and María Rosa Menocal, the documentary uncovers the forces that made this collaboration possible—and the tragic events that ultimately unraveled it. With stunning cinematography and thought-provoking insights, *The Ornament of the World* (2019) is a must-watch for anyone fascinated by the power of culture to bridge divides.