Title: Wow! Talk about comprehensive!
Product review: This book was really great. Anyone who has a passion for history would love this book. It takes us from the "late classical-early medieval" period up to the present in the middle east, with the thesis that only now is the final end of ancient Byzantium occurring. The ancient Christian civilization coexisted for 1400 years with the other cultures; now,however, for a number of reasons, the last Christians are feeling compelled to leave. I have already ordered John Moscos's "Spritual Meadow" so I can compare what Dalrymple says to my reading of the original. Also, I should comment on how delightful his stories about stays in the old, surviving monasteries were. A few of the chapters raised my eyebrows a bit--however, I was moved by the monastery of St. Anthony in Egypt, and what was said about monasticism and prayer. This is definitely a book to read, whether your interest is middle east history, religion, byzantium, or travel!
Would you say this review depicts the product in a flattering or unflattering light?
