Of all the classical Arabic prose writers, al-Djāhiz is a pioneer. His unusual approach gives us an active picture that is a perfect reflection of the rise in social tension and discrimination. The author intends to shatter the wall of silence and points out the high places of exclusion and contempt. To support his argument he uses dramatic examples from daily life, opens the field of micro-history and redefines the foundations of a universal humanism. Throughout his epistle we are shown a gallery of portraits celebrating black men and women; individuals sanctified by posterity because of their poetic erudition, wonderful valour, piety and wisdom. However, most Arabic scholars were reluctant to accept the relativity of values and propriety. They found al-Djāhiz's viewpoint and his defence of blacks erroneous and impertinent. Ibn Qutayba, one of the most eminent representatives of the classical literary tradition, wastes no time vilifying him, saying, 'if he was convinced that he was responsible for his writing [...], he would not wear himself out in an effort to make the false unbelievable in his own eyes' (Ibn Qutayba, 1962, p. 65; Pellat, 1977, pp. 1-8; Pellat, 1980, pp. 1-67).  
This rapid review demonstrates the importance of carrying out a deep and thorough investigation of the documentary sources to unravel numerous issues. It is clear that these issues are not just rooted in the past. Today, as in the past, the hindrance of access to public freedoms and citizens' rights is still a stumbling block where social and racial discriminations are concerned. What is going on at the moment in Tunisia, ${ }^{2}$ Morocco and Mauritania, to name but a few countries, speaks volumes about the lasting nature of the phenomenon.  
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