Christopher de Bellaigue is a distinguished author and journalist whose work primarily focuses on the Middle East and South Asia. His writings delve deeply into the complex political and cultural landscapes of these regions, offering insightful perspectives. Through his journalism and books, he aims to illuminate historical events and their enduring consequences. His prose is recognized for its keen observation and thoughtful analysis.
Set in 1537, the narrative explores the complexities of Suleyman the Magnificent's reign amidst a backdrop of political and religious turmoil. As the Ottoman Sultan grapples with external enemies, an intense family conflict brews between his beloved wife Hurrem and his first-born son Mustafa, along with his mother Mahidevran. This gripping account by a Baillie Gifford shortlisted historian presents a vivid portrayal of Suleyman's life, employing a unique 'history in the present tense' approach that brings this pivotal moment in history to life.
"A new generation of travelers are eager to see innovation that will alleviate their guilt about flying, and they want to know where the industry is, how seriously they're taking climate change, and what the future looks like. This is the story of the search for a way to fly green"-- Provided by publisher
An immersive reconstruction of the life of the most feared and powerful man of the sixteenth century. 'Wolf Hall for the Ottoman Empire ... History at its most gripping' Telegraph 'A formidable book ... incredible' Rory Stewart Venice, 1522. Intelligence arrives from the east confirming Europe's greatest fear: the vastly rich Ottoman Sultan has all he needs to wage total war - and his sights are set on Rome. With Christendom divided, Suleyman the Magnificent has his hand on its throat. From the palaces of Istanbul to the blood-soaked fields of central Europe and the scorched coasts of north Africa, The Lion House tells the true story of two civilisations in an existential duel and the rise of the most feared man of the sixteenth century. It is a tale of the timeless pull of power, dangerous to live with, deadly to live without. 'The most daring history book of the year. Unforgettable' Dominic Sandbrook, Sunday Times 'An urgent, immersive, present-tense gallop ... behind the bejewelled descriptive prose a thumping pulse of action tugs us through' Financial Times 'Luminous ... gripping ... truly magnificent' Spectator
The Islamic Enlightenment: a contradiction in terms? The Muslim world has
often been accused of a failure to modernise, reform and adapt. Beginning with
the collision of East and West following Napoleon's arrival in Egypt, and
taking us through 200 years of Middle Eastern history, this book tells the
forgotten story of the Islamic Enlightenment.
Statt 24,90 € jetzt nur noch 7,95 € In der Nähe einer Autobahn im Süden Teherans steht die Nekropole des Ayatollah Khomeini, die wie eine Tankstelle für die Seele wirkt. Doch das unvollendete Bauwerk zeigt Zeichen des Verfalls, und die großen Gebetshallen sind leer. Irans Islamische Revolution hat ihre Energie verloren; das Land stagniert, und in der Gesellschaft brodelt es. Wo sind die Geiselnehmer und heiligen Krieger, die den Schah stürzten und gegen Saddam Husseins Irak kämpften? Christopher de Bellaigue nimmt uns mit auf eine spannende Reise durch den heutigen Iran und beleuchtet die historischen, religiösen und kulturellen Grundlagen der Gesellschaft. Er lässt die Menschen zu Wort kommen – Mullahs, Revolutionäre, Intellektuelle, Künstler, fliegende Händler und Mystiker. Im Gegensatz zu V. S. Naipaul, der solche Begegnungen mit Geringschätzung behandelt, zeigt de Bellaigue Sympathie und Offenheit für seine Gesprächspartner. Als junger Journalist, der fließend Farsi spricht und mit einer Iranerin verheiratet ist, bietet er erhellende Einblicke in eine der geheimnisvollsten Gesellschaften der Welt. Wer die Schlüsselrolle Irans in den aktuellen weltpolitischen Konflikten verstehen möchte, sollte dieses eindrucksvolle Porträt lesen.
