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This book analyzes representations of Arabia and North Africa primarily in selected works by Wilfred Thesiger, Paul Bowles, Geoffrey Moorhouse, and Robert Irwin written between the years 1949-1983. This period represents a transitional phase in the history of both Arabia and North Africa, as it witnesses the dissolution of French and British colonies in most areas of the two regions. Consequently, the depictions of these four authors consider a range of changing attitudes towards the two areas as variously physical, fantastical, and narrative spaces. This book will seek to elucidate the complex manner in which these texts interact with Orientalism as Edward Said uses the term. Indeed these selected authors frequently write from a perspective that interrogates Western civilization and the notion of the Oriental. This interaction cannot simply be reduced to a gestural inflection, but conveys a commitment (be it positive or negative) to the indigenous cultural values.

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Dr Wasfi R. Elshqeirat studied modern English novel at the University of Birmingham City, UK. He now teaches modern literature and cultural theory at Al-Hussein University - Jordan.

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