Christopher De Bellaigue Livres

A biography of one of the first liberals in the Middle East and a remarkable patriot who embodied his nation's struggle for freedom, which led to his untimely demise and resulted in the Islamic Revolution of 1979

The book is a deeply personal exploration that is both courageous and eloquently crafted. It delves into intimate themes, offering readers a unique perspective that resonates on multiple levels. Through its heartfelt narrative, it invites reflection and connection, making it a significant contribution to contemporary literature.

Statt 24,90 € jetzt nur noch 7,95 € In der Nähe einer Autobahn im Süden Teherans steht die Nekropole des Ayatollah Khomeini, die wie eine Tankstelle für die Seele wirkt. Doch das unvollendete Bauwerk zeigt Zeichen des Verfalls, und die großen Gebetshallen sind leer. Irans Islamische Revolution hat ihre Energie verloren; das Land stagniert, und in der Gesellschaft brodelt es. Wo sind die Geiselnehmer und heiligen Krieger, die den Schah stürzten und gegen Saddam Husseins Irak kämpften? Christopher de Bellaigue nimmt uns mit auf eine spannende Reise durch den heutigen Iran und beleuchtet die historischen, religiösen und kulturellen Grundlagen der Gesellschaft. Er lässt die Menschen zu Wort kommen – Mullahs, Revolutionäre, Intellektuelle, Künstler, fliegende Händler und Mystiker. Im Gegensatz zu V. S. Naipaul, der solche Begegnungen mit Geringschätzung behandelt, zeigt de Bellaigue Sympathie und Offenheit für seine Gesprächspartner. Als junger Journalist, der fließend Farsi spricht und mit einer Iranerin verheiratet ist, bietet er erhellende Einblicke in eine der geheimnisvollsten Gesellschaften der Welt. Wer die Schlüsselrolle Irans in den aktuellen weltpolitischen Konflikten verstehen möchte, sollte dieses eindrucksvolle Porträt lesen.

Offering an insider's perspective, this book delves into Iran's complexities, revealing its significance on the global stage. It provides an authoritative exploration of the nation's history, culture, and politics, shedding light on its mysterious nature. Through detailed insights, readers gain a deeper understanding of Iran's role in contemporary affairs and the factors that shape its identity as a powerful nation.

The essays and reviews delve into Iran's political landscape from the late 1990s to the present, analyzing the reformist movements under Muhammad Khatami and the hard-line policies of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. Christopher de Bellaigue explores the influence of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the complexities of Iran's nuclear ambitions, assessing Western intervention possibilities. Additionally, he examines the potential for liberalization and democratization amid a youthful population striving for change while navigating the tension between Western influences and their own cultural identity.

The Islamic Enlightenment: a contradiction in terms? The Muslim world has often been accused of a failure to modernise, reform and adapt. Beginning with the collision of East and West following Napoleon's arrival in Egypt, and taking us through 200 years of Middle Eastern history, this book tells the forgotten story of the Islamic Enlightenment.

An immersive reconstruction of the life of the most feared and powerful man of the sixteenth century. 'Wolf Hall for the Ottoman Empire ... History at its most gripping' Telegraph 'A formidable book ... incredible' Rory Stewart Venice, 1522. Intelligence arrives from the east confirming Europe's greatest fear: the vastly rich Ottoman Sultan has all he needs to wage total war - and his sights are set on Rome. With Christendom divided, Suleyman the Magnificent has his hand on its throat. From the palaces of Istanbul to the blood-soaked fields of central Europe and the scorched coasts of north Africa, The Lion House tells the true story of two civilisations in an existential duel and the rise of the most feared man of the sixteenth century. It is a tale of the timeless pull of power, dangerous to live with, deadly to live without. 'The most daring history book of the year. Unforgettable' Dominic Sandbrook, Sunday Times 'An urgent, immersive, present-tense gallop ... behind the bejewelled descriptive prose a thumping pulse of action tugs us through' Financial Times 'Luminous ... gripping ... truly magnificent' Spectator

Set in 1537, the narrative explores the complexities of Suleyman the Magnificent's reign amidst a backdrop of political and religious turmoil. As the Ottoman Sultan grapples with external enemies, an intense family conflict brews between his beloved wife Hurrem and his first-born son Mustafa, along with his mother Mahidevran. This gripping account by a Baillie Gifford shortlisted historian presents a vivid portrayal of Suleyman's life, employing a unique 'history in the present tense' approach that brings this pivotal moment in history to life.

"A new generation of travelers are eager to see innovation that will alleviate their guilt about flying, and they want to know where the industry is, how seriously they're taking climate change, and what the future looks like. This is the story of the search for a way to fly green"-- Provided by publisher