Middle East Travel Writing, History & Archeology
admin 
Freya Stark’s journey through Persia, as depicted in “The Valley of the Assassins,” offers a compelling narrative filled with encounters, challenges, and rich observations. Stark’s intricate journey, unearths the layers of cultural interaction, the complexities of the political landscape, and the indefatigable human spirit in its quest for understanding and exploration. Through her eyes, we … Read more
In the heart of the Persian Gulf lies Bahrain, a small island nation whose fate was irrevocably changed by the discovery of “black gold.” Before this pivotal moment, Bahrain’s economy thrived on the traditional industries of pearl diving and sea trade, deeply rooted in the rich cultural fabric of its people. The discovery of oil … Read more
The life of the Bedouin, or Badawin as referred to by H.R.P. Dickson, unfolds as a tale of resilience, tradition, and adaptation. Dickson’s ethnographic masterpiece, “The Arab of The Desert,” provides a vivid portrayal of these nomadic people’s lives, particularly around Kuwait in the early part of the 20th century. Key Takeaways Herein we delve … Read more
Psychological warfare is not merely as an abstract concept but was used as a pivotal tool in the historical Battle of Aqaba in 1917. Psychological warfare refers to the tactical use of propagandas, threats and other psychological techniques to supersede one’s enemies by inducing doubt, fear, morale decay or influencing their ability to fight. It’s … Read more
Bertram Thomas’s “Arabia Felix” is a captivating travel memoir that takes readers on a journey through the rugged and enchanting landscapes of the Qara Mountains in Oman. As one of the earliest Western explorers to document his experiences in this remote region, Thomas provides a unique insight into the culture, traditions, and social systems of … Read more
Exploring language patterns provides insight into social ties, cultural heritage, and communal beliefs. Among these patterns, dialects hold a special place for demarcating identities and preserving historical narratives. This discussion focusses on such a regional dialect – the Kuwaiti Arabic spoken in Kuwait, a dialect that has evolved over centuries reflecting the society’s strong emphasis … Read more