the great war of our time by michael morell

In the first chapter of 'Empire of the Mind,' Axworthy provides an overview of the early history of Iran, focusing on the Elamite and Persian empires. He also explores the impact of European colonialism on Iran's development and the complex relationship between Iran and the West in the modern era.Ĭhapter 1: 'The Elamites and the Persians' Axworthy shows how Iran has often sought to balance its own distinct cultural identity with its obligations to the regional Islamic community, whether through the promotion of Shiism or through diplomatic alliances with other Muslim powers. One of the most interesting themes that run throughout the book is the tension between Iran's desire for independence and its connections to the broader Islamic world. However, he also makes it clear that Iran is a complex and multifaceted society and that there have been many moments of beauty, creativity, and human kindness throughout its history. He provides a detailed account of the atrocities committed by the Mongol invasions, the brutal reign of Shah Abbas I, and the human rights abuses that occurred under the Islamic Republic. For example, he explores the impact of the poet Rumi and the Sufi tradition on Persian literature and spirituality, as well as the influence of Persian art and architecture on the wider Islamic world.Īt the same time, Axworthy does not shy away from the darker aspects of Iran's history. Rather than focusing solely on political events or military campaigns, he also delves into the intellectual and cultural developments that have shaped Iran's identity over the centuries. Yet, despite the vast scope of the material, Axworthy manages to maintain a straightforward and engaging narrative that keeps the reader hooked from beginning to end.Īnother strength of the book is how Axworthy blends political, cultural, and social history together. He covers everything from the rise of the Achaemenid Empire under Cyrus the Great to the Arab conquest of Iran, the Safavid era, the constitutional revolution of the early 20th century, and the Islamic Revolution of 1979. One of the most striking aspects of this book is the depth and breadth of Axworthy's knowledge of Iran's history. The author is a renowned scholar of Iranian history and has written extensively on the subject, including books such as 'The Sword of Persia.' However, in this book, Axworthy takes the reader on a journey through Iran's past, exploring the country's evolution from the ancient Persian empire to the modern Islamic Republic. 'Empire of the Mind: A History of Iran'by Michael Axworthy is a fascinating and insightful book that offers a comprehensive overview of Iran's rich history and cultural heritage, just under 300 pages.

The great war of our time by michael morell