The Middle East: A Brief History of the Last 2,000 Years

good book

for those interested in the subject

A Tough read!!

As I first started reading this book, I realized that it was definitely well put together. The research and accuracy is definitely entertaining. However, this book is not for any student looking for a quick lesson on Middle East history. The descriptions and chapters are long and at times cover alot of material that can make you sleepy after a long day. The chapters touch the origins of many empires, religions and modern day issues. This may not be the book for someone wanting to start learning about Mid-East culture from scratch. I have to say this writing does include vocabulary, mainly arabic words. I found this to be helpful in learning a few new words. Overall the book is good if you want accurate information. Just be prepared for alot of information and make sure to have coffee in the house.

The Definitive Overview

Prof. Lewis begins with the Roman and Persian Empires to lay the foundation for this sweeping history of the Middle East. Given the range of area and the span of time, it can only be but an overview history--but his command of the dates, people, and places which made the history of this area is unparalleled. He is neither an apologist for the Arab peoples, like Edward Said or John Esposito, nor a hasty critic. He is a great historian.

Going beyond Byzantium

I'm not a noted historian, yet was interested in the world's history both before and after the birth of Christ. History on the mideast was not something I studied. It was a wrestling match to pick apart the Mid East history to 637 CE, but so interesting to learn about Persia, Parthians or Parthinians, Meso-Potamia, and Cyrus and Alexander the Greats. I've yet to read about the rise of Islam given Conquest by Arabia to the advanced organization and adjustment of Islam to do.

Ren Joseph

Within the orientalists intellectual circle, Benard Lewis is considered a heretical historian within the topics of Islam and the Middle East and because of his educational bias from Israel, he attacks the Arabs and Islam. His dangerous ideology calls for the destruction of Islam by the Western powers. Edward Said, in his book Orientalism points out the idiotic ideas and points by that of Mr Lewis. While some right wing propandists may hold him high in respect, many intellectuals consider him on the other end of great monumentals such as Edward Said and John L. Esposito.

brilliant survey

This is the best survey of Middle Eastern history now available, by the most distinguished living Orientalist. It should be required reading for anyone who wants to understand the Islamic world.

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