This five-week course will examine a variety of historical accounts of travel to, from and within the Middle East. It is led by Paul Starkey (Professor emeritus, Durham University) and Dr Janet Starkey (ASTENE).
Egypt and the Middle East have enchanted many travellers over the centuries, and these lectures provide a fascinating array of accounts and perceptions. From the earliest epic of Gilgamesh to early Christian, Jewish and Muslim pilgrims, to medieval merchants, missionaries and fictional travel narratives; artist-travellers who influenced European images of the Middle East; and travellers from the Middle East in Europe, they travelled in pursuit of knowledge, power, diplomacy and trade, for pleasure and adventure, on pilgrimage, and to discover and plunder the exotic.
Content of course: each two-hour session will consist of a lecture followed by an opportunity for questions and discussion. There will be a break for refreshments which are included in the price. Suggestions for supplementary reading will also be given for anyone interested in pursuing the topic in more depth.
Tea and coffee will be served, and all are welcome. There is no need to print out and bring your ticket, as there will be a record of your booking.
For more information click here.
Travelling Practices and the Emergence of Tourism in the Middle East
Issue 66, December 2023
Turkey’s Centenary Issue
