Alexandria A History And Guide And Pharos And Pharillon

The aim of the Abinger Editions is to provide a new, properly edited library of the literary works of E.M. Forster that does justice to his literary genius. The latest in the series is Alexandria, written while Forster was in Egypt during the First World War. This edition collates and compares all the existing editions of the work to provide the definitive version of the text. It also contains the subsequent work by Forster, Pharos and Pharillon.

Alexandria is a city which has haunted and inspired its visitors for over 2,000 years. Here, two of its best-known celebrants provide a view of Alexandria's present through the window of its past. Written during World War I, and later revised, this is Forster's tribute to Alexandria--a combined history of the city and a practicaql guide for the visitor. This annotated edition contains not only the first translation of Constantine Cavafy's famous poem "The God Abandons Antony" but also a specially commissioned introduction by Lawrence Durrell, who recounts his recent return to the city that served as a backdrop for the Alexandria Quartet.

The “History” attempts (after the fashion of a pageant) to marshal the activities of Alexandria during the two thousand two hundred and fifty years of her existence. Starting with the heroic figure of Alexander the Great, it inspects the dynasty of the Ptolemies, and in particular the career of the last of them, Cleopatra; an account of Ptolemaic literature and science follows, and closes this splendid period, to which I have given the title of “Greco-Egyptian.” The second period, called “Christian”, begins with the rule of Rome, and traces the fortunes of Christianity, first as a persecuted and then as a persecuting power: all is lost in 641, when the Patriarch Cyrus betrays Alexandria to the Arabs. An interlude comes next—“The Spiritual City”—which meditates upon Alexandrian philosophy and religion, both Pagan and Christian: it seemed better to segregate these subjects, partly because they interrupt the main historical procession, partly because many readers are not interested in them. History is resumed in the “Arab Period,” which is of no importance though it lasts over 1,000 years—from Amr to Napoleon. With Napoleon begins the “Modern Period,” the main feature of which is the building of the city we now see under the auspices of Mohammed Ali; and the pageant concludes, as well as it may, with an account of the events of 1882, and with surmises as to future municipal developments.

E.M. Forster's study of Alexandria, which he wrote while stationed in the city during the First World War, has appeared only once in the United States and has long been out of print. This new edition will add the essays "Pharos" and "the Pharillon" which were published in 1923 and which completed his attempt, "after the fashion of a pageant, to marshal the activities of Alexandria during two thousand two hundred and fifty years of her existence."Forster was a great admirer of Baedeker and Murray's guides and Alexandria: A History and a Guide is cross-referenced to help the reader and the traveler "link the present and the past." Beautifully illustrated, this is both a guide to one of the great city-centers of the Mediterranean and a subtle work of history, comparative civilization, and religion.

Discover the timeless allure of Alexandria through the eyes of Edward Morgan Forster as he weaves history and a captivating guide to this ancient city. Explore the rich history and vibrant character of Alexandria with "Alexandria: A History and a Guide" by Edward Morgan Forster, a comprehensive journey through the city's past and present. Immerse yourself in Forster's eloquent prose as he unfolds the layers of Alexandria's history, offering readers a guide that combines historical insight with the allure of a captivating narrative. As the pages unfold, delve into the historical tapestry of Alexandria, from its ancient origins to its role as a cultural and intellectual hub. Edward Morgan Forster provides readers with a guide that not only explores the city's architectural marvels but also delves into the stories of the people who shaped its destiny. But here's a question that lingers in the air: How has Alexandria evolved over the centuries, and what cultural treasures and historical anecdotes await those who explore its streets? Reflect on the transformative tales presented by Forster, prompting contemplation on the enduring charm and significance of this iconic city. Experience the allure of Alexandria with "Alexandria: A History and a Guide." Short, evocative paragraphs guide you through the historical and cultural aspects of the city, encouraging you to appreciate the blend of antiquity and modernity that defines Alexandria. Are you ready to journey through the heart of Alexandria and uncover its hidden gems? Join Edward Morgan Forster on a literary exploration through the pages of "Alexandria: A History and a Guide" and discover the timeless beauty and cultural richness of this historic city. Open the doors to a world of historical discovery. Purchase "Alexandria: A History and a Guide" now, and let Forster's narrative be your guide to understanding the complexities and allure of one of the world's most fascinating cities. Seize the opportunity to own a piece of Alexandria's history. Embrace the cultural richness of "Alexandria: A History and a Guide" and let the tales of this iconic city transport you through time and space.

In the autumn of 1915, in a "slightly heroic mood", E.M. Forster arrived in Alexandria, full of lofty ideals as a volunteer for the Red Cross. Yet most of his time was spent exploring "the magic, antiquity and complexity" of the place in order to cope with living in what he saw as a "funk-hole". With a novelist's pen, he brings to life the fabled, romantic city of Alexander the Great, capital of Graeco-Roman Egypt, beacon of light and culture symbolised by the Pharos, where the doomed love affair of Antony and Cleopatra was played out and the greatest library the world has ever known was built. Threading 3,000 years of history with vibrant strands of literature and punctuating the narrative with his own experiences, Forster immortalised Alexandria, painting an incomparable portrait of the great city and, inadvertently, himself.