Middle East Travel Writing, History & Archeology
In the heart of the Arabian Peninsula lies the vast and enigmatic Nafud Desert, a landscape of shifting sands and ancient mysteries. Among the pioneers who dared to unveil its secrets was William Gifford Palgrave, whose exploration laid the groundwork for a succession of intrepid travellers. Palgrave’s footsteps marked the beginning of a captivating journey … Read more
Exploring the uncharted territories of Central Arabia has been a historical undertaking that has captured the imaginations of daring adventurers, only some of whom have left detailed accounts of their accomplishments. This essay delves into the journeys of two European explorers, Carlo Guarmani and Charles Montague Doughty, who traversed the formidable Nafud desert to unravel … Read more
D.G. Hogarth, in his insightful literary exploration of the Arabian Peninsula, unveils a landscape largely uncharted by Europeans well into the early 19th century. As Hogarth intricately recounts, the enigmatic region of Asir stood as a testament to the unexplored frontiers that beckoned geographical inquiry. Notably, he attributes the advancement of cultural understanding and cartographical … Read more
Born in 1862, British archaeologist and historian D.G. Hogarth made substantial contributions to Arabian studies, particularly through his influential work “The Penetration of Arabia,” published at the turn of the 20th century. Despite not being an Arabist by profession, Hogarth’s detailed insights into Arabia’s geography and topography laid a pioneering foundation for later scholars and … Read more
The final campaign in Palestine and Syria, unfolding from December 1917 to October 1918, encapsulated a critical juncture in the tapestry of World War I. Against the backdrop of the tumultuous events that characterised this period, the Arab Revolt faced its ultimate test, with the fate of nations hanging in the balance. As the campaign … Read more
In the shifting sands of the Great Arab Revolt during World War I, one figure emerged as a masterful orchestrator of unconventional warfare – T.E. Lawrence. His pivotal role in the Aqaba campaign serves as a compelling chapter in the saga of Lawrence’s exploits. As the architect of daring and audacious strategies, Lawrence propelled the … Read more