Middle East Travel Writing, History & Archeology
In the 19th century Central Arabia, with its vast steppes and deserts, stood as a timeless tapestry, resilient against the passage of centuries, portraying a societal ethos that remained remarkably constant for centuries. In the exploration of this enigmatic region, the indomitable spirit of Charles Doughty emerges as a guiding force, providing a comprehensive view … Read more
In the realm of Middle East studies, D. G. Hogarth emerges as a prominent figure whose contributions have left a lasting impact on the understanding of Arabian landscapes and cultures. Among his significant works, “The Penetration of Arabia” stands as a cornerstone, offering a comprehensive review of the existing writings on Arabia up to the … Read more
In the late 19th century, amidst the maritime tales of daring adventures, Jack Keane, a Yorkshire clergyman’s son, emerged as an intriguing figure whose contribution to early Arabaian travel writing remains relatively unknown to wider readership. Born on October 4, 1854, in the English port town of Whitby, Keane embarked on a remarkable journey that … Read more
The desolate expanse of Central Arabia, with its shifting dunes and hidden oases, has been a canvas for intrepid explorers seeking to decode its mysteries. Among the stalwarts of these endeavours, William Gifford Palgrave, a Jesuit priest, emerges as a central figure in the 19th-century exploration saga. As we embark on this journey through the … Read more
In his seminal work, “The Penetration of Arabia,” D.G. Hogarth masterfully weaves together the written memoirs of early European travellers, offering readers a captivating glimpse into a bygone era. Among these intrepid explorers is George Forster Sadlier, whose journey to Arabia unfolds against the tumultuous backdrop of Ottoman-Saudi conflict—a period marked by instability and transformative … Read more
John Keane (1854 – 1937) is one of the lesser-celebrated but highly remarkable figures in the history of Arabian travel writing. Born an Englishman in the 19th century, he embarked on a remarkable journey that transcended the conventional boundaries of historical exploration. Disguised as a Muslim, Keane immersed himself in the vibrant tapestry of Meccan … Read more