A highly readable collection that maintains that Arabic literature reflects the Western postmodern condition without denying its own traditions.

A critical survey of the development and achievements of Arabic poetry over the last 150 years.

An introduction to Modern Arabic Literature, from the beginning of the nineteenth century to the present

Modern Arabic literature remains little known and poorly understood despite growing curiosity among European readers. This brief introduction offers a unique overview, focusing on developments over the last fifty years. It provides a guide to the literary landscape, indicating the major landmarks in the shape of authors, ideas and debates. The picture that emerges shows that the literature of the modern Arab world, Europe's closest neighbour, is not so far from us as we are sometimes encouraged to think. A timely contribution to the dialogue between East and West, bringing modern Arabic literature into the mainstream for English-speaking readers. 'Tresilian's book is not only informative about its subject but also provides thought-provoking messages to the general reader.' -- Denys Johnson Davies Banipal