Middle East Travel Writing, History & Archeology
John Keane’s memoir, “My Journey to Medina,” provides a vivid account of his travels in the Arabian Hejaz during the 1800s. As an Englishman navigating challenging desert landscapes, Keane shares his experiences, encounters, and reflections on the diverse characters and events that shaped his journey. This exploration delves into the core components of Keane’s narrative, … Read more
In the 19th century, John Keane, an Englishman who lived in Arabia disguised as a Muslim, embarked on an epic pilgrimage from Mecca to Medina. His experiences, vividly documented in his book “My Journey to Medina,” offer readers a unique insight into the challenges and wonders of the Arabian landscape. In this essay, we will … Read more
In the opening chapters of “The Penetration of Arabia,” penned by the British archeologist D. G. Hogarth, the Arabian Peninsula unfolds as a captivating tableau of geographic nuances. Hogarth, a seasoned explorer, embarked on a literary effort that transcended the mundane, delving into the very essence of the peninsula’s topography. His keen observations unveil a … Read more
John Keane, a lesser-known but intriguing traveler of the 19th century, diverged from the conventional paths of exploration in Arabia. Instead of merely passing through the region, Keane undertook a distinctive journey that involved immersing himself in the culture by residing in Mecca for a substantial six months. His unique perspective was further enriched by … Read more
In the realm of Arabian exploration, D.G. Hogarth’s seminal work, “The Penetration of Arabia,” stands as a cornerstone, providing a window into the challenges faced by early 20th-century explorers and the evolving landscape of knowledge about the Arabian Peninsula. Penned in the early 1900s, the narrative unfolds against a backdrop of technological limitations and the … Read more
D.G. Hogarth, a distinguished archaeologist celebrated for his notable contributions to Egyptian and Greek studies, stands as a pivotal figure in the realm of historical exploration. One of his significant works, “The Penetration of Arabia,” marks a pioneering effort in the annals of geographical studies. Published at a time when the vast and enigmatic expanses … Read more