German Literature on the Middle East

German Literature on the Middle Eastexplores the dynamic between German-speaking and Middle Eastern states and empires from the time of the Crusades to the end of the cold war. This insightful study illuminates the complex relationships among literary and other writings on the one hand and economic, social, and political processes and material dimensions on the other. Centering the analysis on German-language literary and nonfiction writings about the Middle East (including historical documents, religious literature, travel writing, essays, and scholarship), Nina Berman evaluates the multiple layers of meaning contained in these works by emphasizing the importance of cultural contact; a wide web of political, economic, and social practices; and material dimensions as indispensible factors for the interpretive process. The interdisciplinary approach ofGerman Literature on the Middle Eastwill be of interest to the humanities in general and specifically to scholars of German Studies, Comparative Literature, Middle Eastern Studies, and History. Publication of this volume was assisted by an Arts & Humanities Publication Subvention from The Ohio State University. Nina Berman is Professor of Comparative Studies at The Ohio State University.