Sir Richard Francis Burton KCMG FRGS (1821–1890) was a British writer, poet, linguist, explorer, translator, geographer, ethnologist, orientalist, Freemason, diplomat, and cartographer best remembered for extensively travelling in and exploring Africa, Asia, and the Americas. An extraordinary polyglot, he spoke 29 languages and gained extensive knowledge of many different cultures and their practices. His most famous works include English translations of “One Thousand and One Nights” and the “Kama Sutra”, as well as an incredible account of his incognito trip to Mecca when Europeans were strictly forbidden to do so. “A Dedication to Sir Richard Francis Burton” contains a fantastic collection of poetry and excepts by various authors concerning Burton's incredible work and accomplishments, including: “Richard Loves Me, A Memoir by Isabel Burton”, “The Truth About 'The Scented Garden', by William Henry Wilkins”, “A Neglected Genius: Sir Richard Burton, by Arthur Symons”, “To Richard F. Burton, by Algernon Charles Swinburne”, “On the Death of Richard Burton, by Algernon Charles Swinburne”, and “'Honor, Not Honors', by Florence Earle Coates”. Read & Co. Books is publishing this brand new collection of classic writings now complete with an introductory biography of the author by James Sutherland Cotton.

The man who searched for the source of the Nile, became the first non-Moslem to visit Mecca, and translated the Arabian nights, among other adventures.

Richard Francis Burton, a renowned adventurer and translator, presents readers with a comprehensive collection of his works in 'The Complete Works of Sir Richard Francis Burton.' This anthology showcases Burton's literary style, which is marked by his curiosity for foreign cultures and languages, as well as his bold exploration of taboo subjects. The book includes a diverse range of writings, from his celebrated translations of 'The Arabian Nights' to his pioneering studies on African and Middle Eastern societies. Burton's unique blend of academic rigor and adventurous spirit shines through in each piece, offering modern readers a glimpse into the Victorian era's fascination with the exotic and unknown. As a decorated British Army officer, diplomat, and polyglot, Richard Francis Burton's life experiences deeply informed his writing. His travels to remote regions in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East provided him with a wealth of material for his ethnographic studies and literary translations. Burton's insatiable thirst for knowledge and his willingness to challenge societal norms are evident in the vast scope of subjects covered in this collection. For readers interested in exploring the intersection of literature, adventure, and cultural anthropology, 'The Complete Works of Sir Richard Francis Burton' is a must-read. Burton's fearless exploration of foreign lands and his profound insights into human behavior make this anthology a timeless contribution to world literature.