Middle East Travel Writing, History & Archeology
In the rich tapestry of Middle Eastern history, few texts bring to life the vivid intricacies of cultural and geographical diversity quite like Freya Stark’s “The Valley of the Assassins.” Stark, an intrepid British explorer and travel writer, offers an unparalleled glimpse into the heart of the Middle East, capturing the essence of its people … Read more
In the early 20th century, Iran found itself at the crossroads of burgeoning global powers and internal strife, with the British Empire emerging as a particularly influential force. This period was marked by significant transformations that reshaped Iran’s political landscape, economic infrastructure, and social fabric. British interests in Iran were primarily driven by the nation’s … Read more
In the meticulous ethnographic account “The Arab Of The Desert,” H.R.P. Dickson unveils the tapestry of Bedouin life in the early 20th century, specifically focusing on their existence in and around Kuwait. The rich, detailed portrayal of a typical bedouin family’s daily life, as documented by Dickson during his extensive time in the Kuwait Neutral … Read more
In the early 20th century, Gertrude Bell, a renowned traveller and writer, embarked on a journey that would take her through the stark and unyielding landscapes of the Middle East. One of the most captivating and challenging stretches of this journey was the Jordan Valley, a region she described with vivid detail and stark realism. … Read more
D.G. Hogarth, a distinguished British archaeologist renowned for his expertise in Egyptology and ancient Greece, made significant contributions to the field of Arabian studies with his comprehensive work, “The Penetration of Arabia.” While Hogarth did not venture into the terrains of Kuwait himself, his book serves as a valuable compendium, drawing on a wealth of … Read more
The Persian Constitutional Revolution was a turning point in Iran’s history, leading the nation towards modernity, democracy, and self-rule. In the early 1900s, Iran was at a critical juncture, dealing with internal turmoil and foreign interference, sparking a deep-seated transformation across its political, social, and cultural domains. This revolution brought about the overthrow of the … Read more