From Babel to Dragomans

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Bernard Lewis, a distinguished scholar fluent in multiple languages, has significantly contributed to the understanding of Islam, the Ottoman Empire, and the modern Middle East for Western audiences. This collection compiles his reflections on Middle Eastern history and foreign affairs spanning six decades. The essays explore various topics, including pan-Arabism, the Mughal and Ottoman empires, and the dynamics between Western powers and the Middle East. They also delve into travel experiences, culinary traditions, and the challenges of documenting Middle Eastern history. Key events of the twentieth century, such as the rise of modern Israel, the Iranian Revolution, and the Gulf War, are examined alongside pressing issues like the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, and the roles of figures like Saddam Hussein and Osama bin Laden. The collection features a mix of English originals, previously unpublished writings, and notable essays from esteemed publications like Foreign Affairs and The New York Review of Books. With over fifty pieces accompanied by a personal memoir from Lewis, this anthology serves as an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the complexities of the Middle East, offering deep insights into its history, culture, politics, and contemporary issues.