Images of Afghanistan: Exploring Afghan Culture through Art and Literature – Arley Loewen & Josette McMichael | Hardcover | Oxford University Press

Product Details

• Title: Images of Afghanistan: Exploring Afghan Culture through Art and Literature
• Authors: Arley Loewen & Josette McMichael
• ISBN-13: 9780195477955 / 978-0195477955
• ISBN-10: 0195477952
• Publisher: OUP Pakistan (Oxford University Press Pakistan)
• Publication Date: 2010
• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• Pages: 350
• Genre: Literary Criticism

Overview

Images of Afghanistan: Exploring Afghan Culture through Art and Literature is a fascinating exploration of Afghanistan’s rich cultural heritage, narrated through literature, visual art, and storytelling traditions. Written by Arley Loewen and Josette McMichael, this book delves deep into the artistic and literary expressions that define Afghanistan’s identity, resilience, and historical journey.

Through poetry, paintings, folklore, and historical narratives, this book presents Afghanistan beyond the lens of conflict, offering an insightful look at the artistic soul of the nation. It highlights how Afghan writers, poets, and artists have captured the spirit, struggles, and dreams of their people through centuries of change.

With an academic yet accessible approach, the authors provide a well-researched and visually engaging study of Afghanistan’s literary traditions, artistic movements, and evolving cultural expressions. This book is a must-read for those interested in Afghan history, literature, and the role of art in shaping national identity.

Product Features

✔ Hardcover edition with 350 pages of engaging content.
✔ A blend of literature, history, and art, providing a comprehensive cultural perspective.
✔ Features Afghan poetry, historical narratives, and artistic expressions.
✔ Discusses the impact of political and social changes on Afghan cultural identity.
✔ Written by scholars with deep expertise in Afghan literature and history.
✔ Published by Oxford University Press Pakistan, ensuring academic credibility and depth.

Interesting Facts

Beyond Conflict: Unlike many books on Afghanistan, this one focuses on its artistic and literary achievements, not just its history of wars.
Rich Literary Traditions: Afghanistan has produced world-renowned poets and storytellers, including Rumi and Khushal Khan Khattak.
Influence of Persian and Pashto Literature: Afghan literature is deeply influenced by Persian, Pashto, and Dari traditions, reflecting a diverse cultural heritage.
Art as a Form of Resistance: The book explores how Afghan artists and writers have used their craft to preserve national identity through periods of turmoil.

Who Should Read This Book?

Academics & Scholars – Ideal for those studying Afghan culture, literary criticism, and Middle Eastern studies.
Artists & Writers – A source of inspiration for those interested in Afghanistan’s artistic and literary legacy.
Journalists & Historians – A valuable resource for those seeking a deeper, more nuanced understanding of Afghanistan.
Anyone Curious About Afghan Culture – A beautifully written book for those who want to appreciate Afghanistan’s art and literature beyond the headlines.

Publisher Details

Published by Oxford University Press Pakistan, this book stands as a significant contribution to literary criticism and cultural studies, providing an authentic and scholarly perspective on Afghanistan’s artistic traditions.

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your reviews and feedback on this insightful exploration of Afghan culture.

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#AfghanCulture #LiteraryCriticism #AfghanistanHistory #ArtAndLiterature #AfghanPoetry #MiddleEasternStudies #OxfordUniversityPress #CulturalIdentity #AfghanistanBooks