This book investigates the historical trajectory of Eastern Christianity under Islamic rule, examining the transformation from periods of conflict and forced conversion to a state of subjugated protection. Bat Ye'or, a renowned scholar of Islamic history and the status of non-Muslims in Islamic societies, draws upon extensive primary source materials, including legal documents, theological treatises, and historical chronicles, to construct her argument. The central thesis posits that the imposition of Islamic law, specifically the concept of dhimmitude, fundamentally altered the social, political, and religious landscape for Christian communities, leading to a gradual decline in their influence and numbers across the Eastern Mediterranean and North Africa.

Bat Ye'or's work is a significant, albeit controversial, contribution to the study of Christian-Muslim relations in historical contexts. The book is recognized for its detailed archival research and its strong argument regarding the detrimental effects of Islamic rule on Christian communities. While some scholars have engaged critically with her interpretations, particularly concerning the extent and uniformity of dhimmi subjugation, the book remains a foundational text for understanding the historical decline of Christianity in the Middle East and North Africa.