A Physician on the Nile: A Description of Egypt and Journal of the Famine Years (Library of Arabic Literature, 74)

Name: A Physician on the Nile: A Description of Egypt and Journal of the Famine Years (Library of Arabic Literature, 74)
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Book Synopsis: Flora, fauna, and famine in thirteenth-century EgyptA Physician on the Nile begins as a description of everyday life in Egypt at the turn of the seventh/thirteenth century, before becoming a harrowing account of famine and pestilence. Written by the polymath and physician ‘Abd al-La×ıf al-Baghdådı, and intended for the Abbasid caliph al-Nāţir, the first part of the book offers detailed descriptions of Egypt’s geography, plants, animals, and local cuisine, including a recipe for a giant picnic pie made with three entire roast lambs and dozens of chickens. ‘Abd al-La×ıf’s text is also a pioneering work of ancient Egyptology, with detailed observations of Pharaonic monuments, sculptures, and mummies. An early and ardent champion of archaeological conservation, ‘Abd al-La×ıf condemns the vandalism wrought by tomb-robbers and notes with distaste that Egyptian grocers price their goods with labels written on recycled mummy-wrappings.The book’s second half relates his horrific eyewitness account of the great famine that afflicted Egypt in the years 597–598/1200–1202. ‘Abd al-La×ıf was a keen observer of humanity, and he offers vivid first-hand depictions of starvation, cannibalism, and a society in moral free-fall.A Physician on the Nile contains great diversity in a small compass, distinguished by the acute, humane, and ever-curious mind of its author. It is rare to be able to hear the voice of such a man responding so directly to novelty, beauty, and tragedy.A bilingual Arabic-English edition.

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Get ready to embark on a journey through time with A Physician on the Nile: A Description of Egypt and Journal of the Famine Years. This captivating book offers a glimpse into the fascinating world of thirteenth-century Egypt, painted by the insightful words of the renowned polymath and physician, ʿAbd al-Laṭīf al-Baghdādī. Immerse yourself in the rich descriptions of Egypt's geography, wildlife, and mouthwatering local cuisine. From giant picnic pies to meticulously recorded observations of ancient Egyptian monuments, this book is a treasure trove for history and gastronomy enthusiasts alike.

But the journey takes a dark turn as ʿAbd al-Laṭīf recounts the harrowing years of famine and pestilence that struck Egypt. Brace yourself for a chilling eyewitness account of the great famine that plunged society into chaos, exposing the raw desperation of the people. Experience the author's vivid and heart-wrenching descriptions of starvation, cannibalism, and the collapse of moral values. With every page turn, you'll find yourself transported to a world of tragedy and the indomitable human spirit.

A Physician on the Nile is a masterpiece of literature, resonating with the acute, humane, and endlessly curious mind of its author. This bilingual Arabic-English edition enables readers from all walks of life to delve into this remarkable work. Whether you're an aspiring Egyptologist, a history aficionado, or simply looking to be enthralled by an extraordinary tale, this book is a must-have addition to your collection.

Discover the depth and diversity of A Physician on the Nile, a literary gem that will captivate you from beginning to end. Unveiling a world of wonder, beauty, and tragedy, it brings history to life like never before. Don't miss out on this opportunity to immerse yourself in an unforgettable journey. Grab a copy now!

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