Night and Horses and the Desert: An Anthology of Classical Arabic Literature Edited by Robert Irwin-Hardcover

 Night and Horses and the Desert: An Anthology of Classical Arabic Literature edited by Robert Irwin. This anthology offers the first comprehensive collection of poetry and prose from a rich yet often overlooked literary tradition.

Covering a span from the fifth to the sixteenth century, and stretching from Afghanistan to Spain, Night and Horses and the Desert presents translated excerpts from the key works of Arabic literature, providing an essential introduction to the subject. Robert Irwin has curated a diverse selection of Arabic poetry and prose in translation, from well-known masterpieces to more obscure gems. Alongside these extracts, Irwin’s extensive commentary and notes offer a detailed history of Arabic literature, discussing its genres, the rules that shaped them, and the principles of traditional Arabic literary criticism. He delves into how Arabic poetry and prose were recited and recorded, exploring the literary landscapes of the desert, salons, mosques, and bookshops. Additionally, Irwin introduces the figures—caliphs, princesses, warriors, scribes, dandies, and mystics—who contributed to the creation of this dynamic and multifaceted literary culture. Night and Horses and the Desert provides Western readers with a unique glimpse into the richness and depth of the medieval Arab literary world.

Product details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Overlook Books; 1st edition (September 1, 2000)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 462 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1585670642
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1585670642
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.8 pounds
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6.4 x 1.6 x 9.4 inches
• Condition: Used-Very Good