The Penguin Anthology of Classical Arabic Literature

Name: The Penguin Anthology of Classical Arabic Literature
SKU: 9780141441887
Availability: InStock

EGP1,130.00

Spanning the fifth century to the sixteenth, and ranging from Afghanistan to Spain, this unique collection provides a profound insight into the sheer vitality and depth of Classical Arabic literature. From the earliest surviving fragments of The Thousand and One Nights to the elegant beauty and profound power of the Qur’an – believed by the Islamic faith to contain the actual words of Allah – it includes translated extracts from all the major works of the period, alongside many less well-known but equally fascinating pieces. Exploring such traditional themes as lovesick yearning and fated doom, and considering subjects as diverse as the etiquette of falling in love with slave-girls and the terrors of the sea, this compelling anthology of poetry and prose brilliantly illuminates a body of writing that has been unjustly neglected by the west for centuries.

SKU: 9780141441887 Categories: Books, E Arabic Literature in Translation, English Books, Literature &Fiction

REFUND AND RETURN POLICY

Description
Reviews (0)

The Penguin Anthology of Classical Arabic Literature

The Penguin Anthology of Classical Arabic Literature Book Description

Readers will find The Penguin Anthology of Classical Arabic Literature an engaging English translation that brings centuries of poetry and prose to life. This volume offers a vivid journey from the fifth to the sixteenth century, covering lands from Afghanistan to Spain. It introduces the richness of Classical Arabic literature in a way that feels both scholarly and highly readable.

Inside the anthology, fans of world literature will discover fragments of One Thousand and One Nights alongside the lyrical beauty of the Qur’an, revered by Muslims as the literal word of Allah. Moreover, the book presents translated extracts from major works of the era and many lesser‑known gems, showing the full spectrum of Arabic creativity.

The storylines explore lovesick yearning, fated doom, and even the etiquette of courting slave‑girls. Meanwhile, it also touches on the terrors of the sea and the everyday wisdom of medieval courts. Therefore, the collection illuminates a tradition that the West has often overlooked, inviting modern readers to experience its timeless power.

Key Features of The Penguin Anthology of Classical Arabic Literature

Each section delivers carefully selected poems and prose, accompanied by clear contemporary English translations. Additionally, brief introductions provide cultural context, helping readers understand the historical backdrop without feeling overwhelmed.

Furthermore, the anthology balances famous masterpieces with obscure works, ensuring a comprehensive view of the period. Readers can enjoy diverse themes, from romantic longing to philosophical reflection, all within a single, well‑organized volume.

Also, the book includes helpful glossaries that define key Arabic terms and concepts. This feature makes the material accessible to both newcomers and seasoned scholars, enhancing the overall reading experience.

Why Read This Book?

Many readers seek fresh perspectives on world literature, and this anthology delivers exactly that. It allows you to explore the literary achievements of a civilization that shaped art, science, and philosophy for centuries. Because the translations are crafted by expert scholars, the original rhythm and emotion remain intact.

Meanwhile, the collection serves as a valuable resource for students, teachers, and anyone curious about the roots of modern storytelling. It offers insight into how themes like love, fate, and adventure transcend cultural boundaries.

Furthermore, owning this book enriches your personal library with a unique cultural treasure. It not only entertains but also encourages deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of global literary traditions.