Hello,
I am trying to get into the history of the Middle East outside of a cursory knowledge of it. In this, I want to start through Nasser. Would you therefore recommend this book to a beginner?
Some of the comments mention that it is hard to follow through mentioning little-known figures in large detail, and does not detail the history of major parties during that time. Can anyone confirm this?
Thank you
I haven’t read it, so I can’t tell you it’s quality, but looking at his publishing history, which is what academics do before dedicating time to a book, it would seem he has a particular focus on jihadism, which would influence what he writes about Qutb in particular.
But the reviews I’ve read, especially by a Qutb scholar John Calvert, seem positive. So I would say it is as good of an intro as any. I think his thesis that the Arab Nationalism of Nasser and Islamism of Qutb are not diametrically opposed, but rather intertwined and even symbiotic, is quite interesting. It could be a little overwhelming for a complete novice, but it is meant for a wide audience so it should not be impenetrable.
After you finished I think it might be useful to read the words of the men themselves.
I would recommend Sayyid Qutb’s A Child From the Village, a translated autobiography.
And his, Social Justice in Islam, his most famous work.
Now for Nasser
Nasser, Egypt's Liberation: The Philosophy of the Revolution
Said Aburish, Nasser: The Last Arab is the most popular bio, but it may be worthwhile to look at
Rethinking Nasserism Ed. Elie Podeh and On Winckler. It’s a personal favorite and an intellectual history that covers the relevant bits.