The Subtle Ruse, The Book of Arabic Wisdom and Guile

The Subtle Ruse, The Book of Arabic Wisdom and Guile, Translated by Rene R. Khawam 

During the first millennium of Islam, the literary output of the Arab world was vast. Many works have disappeared, but of those which remain, only a handful is known to most Western readers. This book, published here for the first time in English, is an important addition to the library of Arab literature in the West. The book is a collection of stories, drawn from legend, religion and history. Written one hundred years before the publication of The Prince, it examines the subtle use of power and persuasion which one normally associates with Machiavelli. The reader will be familiar with several of the stories found in the book, such as Joseph and the coat of many colours, or Jonah and the whale, but they are presented here from a fresh, Arabic, point of view. The stories, which range from innocent humour to callous cruelty, are frequently allegorical yet contain many political lessons. As an exposition of Arab ingenuity and resourcefulness, the book gives an insight of the philosophy which has reemerged in the Middle East.

Details

• Hardcover with dust jacket (has very light wear and tear, see photos) 1980 English translation
• ISBN: 0856920355
• Condition: Very Good - contact us for more photos and information  
  
• Publisher: East-West Publications