Middle East Travel Writing, History & Archeology
In the realm of Islamic tradition and historical travel literature, John Keane’s “My Journey to Medinah” stands as a captivating memoir that chronicles the profound journey of an English traveller through the heart of the Islamic world. Keane, living between 1854 and 1937, ventured far beyond the familiar boundaries of his native England to immerse … Read more
In his seminal work “Arabia”, St. John Philby provides an intricate portrayal of his experiences and observations in early 20th century Saudi Arabia, shedding light on the cultural, political, and environmental landscapes of the region. Through his narrative, Philby unveils the complexities of life in the Wahhabi capital during the holy month of Ramdhan, offering … Read more
H.R.P. Dickson’s ethnographic account, “The Arab of the Desert,” serves as a captivating window into the lives of Bedouin Arabs during the early 20th century, offering a unique perspective on their customs and way of life, particularly in the region of Kuwait. The intricate web of Bedouin traditions, encompassing notions of Arab honour, hospitality, and … Read more
In John Fryer Thomas Keane’s travelogue, “My Journey to Medinah,” the author recounts a challenging night time journey through the desert. As he describes it, the journey was filled with difficulties, not the least of which was the struggle to stay awake while riding on a donkey. Keane, accustomed to sleeping on camels, found himself … Read more
In the early 20th century, Harry St. John Philby, an esteemed British explorer and writer, journeyed through the heart of Saudi Arabia, encapsulating his experiences in the seminal work “Arabia.” Philby’s narrative, rich with details of his time in Riyadh and other significant regions, offers a window into the cultural and religious tapestry of the … Read more
In the early 20th century, Harry St. John Philby, a British explorer and writer, embarked on a journey that would take him deep into the heart of the Arabian Peninsula, specifically to Riyadh, the capital of what is now known as Saudi Arabia. His observations and experiences during this expedition were meticulously documented in his … Read more