Homa Katouzian Boeken

The first biography of one of Iran's most original socialist thinkers and activists

The book explores the life of Muhammad Musaddiq, a pivotal figure in anti-colonial movements after World War II. As Prime Minister of Iran from 1951 to 1953, he made significant strides by nationalizing the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company and leading efforts to manage Iran's oil industry independently amid economic challenges. Musaddiq also sought to enhance parliamentary power, making him a key player in shaping modern Iranian politics and a symbol of resistance against colonial influence.

Sadeq Hedayat is the most famous and the most enigmatic Iranian writer of the 20th century. This book is the first comprehensive study of Hedayat's life and works set against the background of literary and political developments in a rapidly changing Iran over the first half of the 20th century. Katouzian discusses Hedayat's life and times and the literary and political circles with which he was associated. But he also emphasises the uniqueness and universality of his ideas that have both influenced and set Hedayat apart from other Iranian writers of the period and that have given him a mystique that has been instrumental in his posthumous success with acclaimed works such as The Blind Owl. This second edition is fully revised and updated to reflect on recent debates and scholarship on Sadeq Hadeyat.

Homa Katouzian's theory of arbitrary state and society in Iran is thoroughly explored, providing a comprehensive analysis of both modern and traditional Iranian history and politics. Each chapter stands alone while contributing to the overarching argument, with discussions that include comparisons to European history to highlight the unique sociopolitical dynamics of Iran. As the first modern theory of Iranian history, it is highly esteemed among historians and social scientists for addressing inconsistencies found in traditional theories.

Offers a theoretical framework for the study of Modern Iranian history. This work is a useful reading not only for those interested in the history of modern Iran but also for all students of political science concerned with the developing world. číst celé

Iran has gained attention mostly for negative reasons but there is much more to the story of this ancient land than can be gleaned from the news. This comprehensive history of Iran covers the history of the area from the foundation of the ancient Persian empire to Iranian state. číst celé

The biography delves into the life and works of Sa di, a revered Persian writer known for his profound wisdom and passionate prose and poetry from the thirteenth century. It highlights the themes of physical and spiritual love present in his writings, alongside the influence of his extensive travels. The author, Katouzian, explores Sa di's enduring popularity until the mid-20th century and his subsequent decline into obscurity, offering a unique perspective on his legacy as "the poet of life, love, and compassion."

World-renowned Iranian expert presents the first comprehensive introduction to one of the world's most controversial and misunderstood countries číst celé

Exploring the intricate interplay between politics, history, and literature, this book provides a comprehensive perspective on Iran. It delves into how these elements shape the nation's identity and culture, offering insights into the complexities of Iranian society. Through a blend of analysis and narrative, readers gain a deeper understanding of the forces that have influenced Iran's past and present.

'In the breath that I die, for you I'll be longing/ Wishing to turn into the dust of your belonging' - Sa'di, Expressions of Love. With poetry which speaks across the ages, Sa'di (1210-1281) is a vital classical poet and a towering figure of the medieval Persian canon. Comparable in skill and stature to other Persian poets such as Ferdowsi, Hafez, Rumi and Omar Khayyam, Sa'di's verses--best known through his 'Bustan' and 'Golestan' address universal themes of passion, love and the human condition in works which are both psychologically perceptive and beautifully crafted. His mystical writings, contemporaneous with Rumi, reveal a degree of depth, wisdom and insight which have placed Sa'di in the pantheon of world literature. In this essential new translation of Sa'di's work, leading expert on Iranian studies Homa Katouzian seeks to bring the poet's lyrics to a new readership. The book provides the Persian text and Katouzian's English translation side-by-side, creating an indispensible tool for students and enthusiasts of Iranian history, literature and culture.