Lawrence of Arabia: An Encyclopedia

This encyclopedia, the first work of its kind, includes more than 800 alphabetically arranged entries on subjects related to Lawrence and his works. Covered are such topics as Lawrence's knowledge of Islam, the details of his military campaigns, his legacy in film and popular culture, his family members and acquaintances, his biographers, and important book dealers, collectors, and scholars interested in his writings. Most of the entries mention works for further reading, and the volume closes with a selected, general bibliography.

Thomas Edward Lawrence (1888-1935), better known as Lawrence of Arabia, is one of the 20th century's most legendary figures. As a British liaison officer during World War I, he led the Arab revolt against the Turks. After the war, he helped change the political geography of the Middle East by advocating independence for Iraq. Regardless of his substantial military and political accomplishments, Lawrence aspired to be a man of letters. He recorded his Arab experiences in Seven Pillars of Wisdom, criticized the Royal Air Force in The Mint, and prepared a translation of Homer's Odyssey. He also engaged in voluminous correspondence with many of the leading figures of his day. This encyclopedia, the first work of its kind, chronicles his fascinating and diverse career.

Included are over 800 alphabetically arranged entries on subjects related to Lawrence and his works. The encyclopedia covers such topics as Lawrence's knowledge of Islam, the details of his military campaigns, his legacy in film and popular culture, his family members and acquaintances, his biographers, and important book dealers, collectors, and scholars interested in his writings. Since Lawrence's interests and experiences were so varied, the encyclopedia discusses everything from the history and politics of the Middle East to biblical archaeology, medieval castle-building, literature, and modern mechanical work. Most of the entries mention works for further reading, and the volume closes with a selected, general bibliography.

Author: Stephen Tabachnick
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
Published: 07/01/2004
Pages: 248
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 1.72lbs
Size: 10.32h x 7.20w x 0.93d
ISBN: 9780313305610

Review Citation(s):
American Reference Bks Annual 01/01/2005 pg. 242
Library Journal 11/01/2004 pg. 124

About the Author

STEPHEN E. TABACHNICK is Professor and Chair of English at the University of Memphis. He specializes in British literature from 1880 to 1940 and is also interested in biography, autobiography, and poetry. His previous books include Fiercer Than Tigers: The Life and Works of Rex Warner (2002), T. E. Lawrence (1978, 1997), Images of Lawrence (1988), Explorations in Doughty's Arabia Deserta (1987), and Charles Doughty (1981).