The Cambridge History of India, Vol. IV: The Mughul Period v4.c16.22

v4.c16.22

Abu-’l-Fazl undoubtedly had for Akbar an admiration none the less genuine for its coincidence with his interest, but few will agree with the late Mr Blochmann that the charge of flattery and wilful concealment of facts damaging to the reputation of his master is absolutely unfounded, or that he praises with much more grace and dignity than any other eastern writer. In gross flattery there can be neither grace nor dignity, and Abu-’l-Fazl’s flattery is uncouth in form and style and differs from the formal and customary tribute of other panegyrists by verging on blasphemy.