The Gulf States have long been the new America, where people go to explore new horizons and implement the most daring business ideas. But what do we know about the history and culture of this sultry region, apart from the world-famous collection of fairy tales, “One Thousand and One Nights”?
This unique book will introduce you to the foundation of Arab intangible culture — the colorful and multi-layered mythology of the Arabian Peninsula, its intricate development and the influence of neighboring cultures, its main figures and key plots. You will learn how the ancient Arabs lived — the nomadic Bedouins and the sedentary farmers — the differences between their pre-Islamic pantheons and what amazing creatures, according to legends, could be found in the deserts and oases of Ancient Arabia.
How far apart are the seven heavens and who lives in them? What are the shaitans made of and who is responsible for the tides, earthquakes and storms? How many types of jinn are there, what is their cunning and how can you recognize zaifa – possession by a jinn?
You will learn this and much more from this book, and color and black-and-white illustrations will complement the fabulous journey through the pages of Arabian legends. On the way, you will meet the god of fate Hubal, whose idol once stood in Mecca, the keeper of the grave peace Manat and the patron of caravans al-Qaum, the giant fish Bahamut, holding the whole world on itself, and the giant bird Rukh, feeding its chicks with elephants and rhinoceroses, Aladdin and Sinbad the Sailor, as well as the mysterious tribe of monopods nasnas and fantastic chimeras, which medieval legends inhabited Arabia ... Arm yourself with cunning and ingenuity, like the heroes of the tales of the wise Scheherazade, and set off on your own great adventure!
The book series "Myths of the World. The Most Fabulous Stories of Humanity" will introduce you to the fascinating stories of different countries and peoples. This is an ideal way to immerse yourself in the world of other cultures and expand your horizons. Witness the epic battles of gods, mysterious rituals and legendary heroes!
Year of issue: 2025
Publisher: Bombora
Pages: 240
Cover type: hardcover
Dimensions: 218x145x16 mm
ISBN: 978-5-04-208030-2